Is Your Router Putting Your Home Network at Risk?

When people think about online security, they often focus on passwords, email scams, or viruses. But one of the most important devices protecting your home internet is something many people rarely think about: the router.

Recently, online discussions and security experts, including guidance shared by the National Security Agency (NSA), have reminded consumers that home routers can become targets for cybercriminals if they are outdated, unsecured, or never updated.

Your router is the gateway between your devices and the internet. Everything from smart TVs and phones to laptops, gaming systems, security cameras, and smart home devices passes through it. If a router is not properly maintained, it can create security risks and performance issues inside the home.

Here are a few simple steps every household should take:

• Restart your router occasionally to help apply updates and refresh connections
• Make sure your router firmware stays up to date
• Use strong Wi-Fi passwords and avoid default passwords
• Replace older routers that no longer receive security updates
• Be cautious when purchasing low-cost or unknown-brand networking equipment online

As more devices connect to home Wi-Fi every year, having reliable and secure networking equipment is becoming increasingly important. BEK customers using a BEK-managed router also have access to the BEK Freedom app, which makes it easier to manage connected devices, monitor network activity, pause internet access, and help keep the home network running smoothly.

Managed equipment also helps ensure customers receive important router updates and support when needed.

A secure home network helps protect your devices, improves performance, and provides a better online experience for the entire household.