Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Wi-Fi & networking

Secure your home router

Secure your home Wi-Fi router in 30 minutes: change the admin password, use WPA3, update firmware, turn off WPS, and add a guest network.

Difficulty
Medium
Time
20-30 min
Steps
8
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • Router still uses default password
  • Unknown devices on Wi-Fi
  • Neighbors may be using your Wi-Fi
  • Router never updated

Step by step

  1. Log in to the router's app or admin page (address on the router's label, often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
  2. Change the admin password from the default.
  3. Set Wi-Fi security to WPA3, or WPA2/WPA3 mixed if older devices need it. Never use WEP or open Wi-Fi.
  4. Use a long Wi-Fi password (12+ characters, a passphrase is fine).
  5. Turn off WPS and remote admin unless you need them.
  6. Update the firmware and turn on automatic updates.
  7. Create a guest network for visitors and smart-home devices.
  8. Review the connected devices list and remove anything you don't recognize.

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "Secure your home router"?

Stop and get help if: You can't log in and don't know the admin password (a reset is needed). The router no longer gets firmware updates (end of life). Replace it. Unknown devices keep coming back after a password change. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 20-30 min. Difficulty: Medium.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Changing the Wi-Fi password disconnects every device. Have the new password ready for each one. Write down the new admin password and keep it somewhere safe.

Still stuck?

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Want a pro?

Book a repair at BCC

  • Diagnostic$60
  • Shop repairs$100/hr
  • On-site$100/hr + $100 visit

10504 W Fairview Ave, Boise ID · Fri–Wed 10 AM–8 PM · Closed Thursday

Book a repair at BCCCall 208-996-3508

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