The router and CyberSec relationship is very close, and the type of device can impact whether our internet network is suitably secured. Find out how this networking device affects the security of the Internet network.
Do you, dear trader or better say reader know where Cybersecurity starts? You may have learned a bit from our Cryptocurrency Security Guide, but today I am focusing on the foundation of web security. Clearly, I mean the devices you use to connect to the network. It doesn’t matter if it’s your Mac/PC with MS Windows or a phone with a WiFi connection. All these devices have something in common. They all use a router for connecting to the broader network – the Internet. So you know where to start looking. Go for it and make it secure with us, starting today with a cycle of articles concerning CyberSec.
Router type and age affect CyberSec.
Let’s start with the fundamental question: should I work with what I have, or should I go for a new device? Well, probably the first thing to consider here is the age of your equipment – if it’s older than five years, you may want to give yourself a boost in technology and go for a new one.
Why is it worth getting a new device? Newer routers offer a better experience and much better WiFi security (at the same time, they do not necessarily provide larger antennas and a better range of Internet connection, but it’s a different kettle of fish).
Router and CyberSec: what should you know?
Almost all routers offering WEP as the only ciphering method are dead by now (or they should die out as soon as possible). WPA-2 is just the minimum, and you should look for WPA-3 as the current standard.
The second aspect you need to consider is using faster WiFi, like WiFi 6 or at least WiFi 5, if your current device doesn’t support it. It’s just quicker, mostly with WiFi-6 but remember that not all devices can use it if you purchased them before creating this standard.
Now is the time for you to look at another parameter: throughput. Change the device if your router does not provide the speed declared by your ISP. There is no magic trick to make it work faster, allowing it to use full speed.
But how about security? Firstly, check if your device creator still offers any technical support for it at all. Look for a firmware update (and make them if there are any). If there is a long silence there, you’re probably left alone. If there is a bug in your router software, you may be an easy target for hackers (well, most likely bots, but still).
Why does the new router affect CyberSec?
As said before – newer devices offer better security as a standard. Blocking malware with an IPS is, at last, something not only for business but typical home routers provides it. That’s something worth having if you – and I’m 100% sure you do – connect some elements of your smart home to a local WiFi.
New routers also offer much better outgoing firewalls that allow an attractive parental control option if you want to block your children from entering specific sites or content.
Don’t want to change the device? Here’s a tip!
What can I do as an alternative to router change if my current one is an older model? Well, there is a nice chance that your router can use some free OS – for routers. One of them is OpenWRT (OpenWrt – https://openwrt.org/about). It’s free and open source, so you may try it (if your device is supported).
Router management is much easier on the business level – their device creators have simple support regulations – 5 years of support at a minimum, with an option for 10. But on a home level, there is nothing much to expect. Two years can be considered a long time since many routers have only initial firmware releases and no further upgrades.
Routers in general, don’t change that much over time. It’s still an item that will let you connect to the Internet. But all the rest changes fast, and so do how we use the Internet and how hackers and scammers do it. In the end, it’s up to you to adjust to the changes in the world and security. Also, the digital one.
