Setting up a Wi-Fi network is generally an easy task. Plug it in. Copy down some letters and numbers. Let ‘er rip.

The problem is that this process ignores all security considerations. Because Wi-Fi works in the background of most people’s thoughts, it’s easy to forget that it’s even there. Unfortunately, there are plenty of malicious folks who haven’t forgotten that your Wi-Fi exists. They are only too happy to let themselves into your network without your knowledge to snoop, steal, or possibly damage your data.

If your Wi-Fi security is weak, your business is vulnerable.

What to do?

Simple and practical steps toward Wi-Fi security

Wi-Fi security is easier than you think. Much of it is common sense and using readily available tools. Consider the following suggestions.

Create a separate network for guests

There are many reasons why you may want to provide Wi-Fi access to guests. Most business-grade routers include the ability to run two separate Wi-Fi networks simultaneously — one for your business network, and one for your guests.

It’s recommended that you use password protection even on your guest Wi-Fi access. This will protect your visitors from becoming vulnerable to anyone sniffing around your networks looking to catch valuable data. Passwords can be provided to guests when they arrive, although it’s good to change this password regularly.

Hide your network name

Many people aren’t aware that you can prevent your Wi-Fi router from displaying your network’s name. Known as a service set identifier (SSID), it can be set to “hidden” so that users (such as authorized employees) have to know the name of the network before being able to connect.

Be warned that this isn’t a foolproof method. Some hackers could still scan your network and find your SSID. Consider this tip more as an additional layer to what should be a multi-layered form of protection.

Use a secure WPA password

Your Wi-Fi access points should employ Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) or the improved WPA2 option. And needless to say, secure passwords are essential. Many people do not change the default admin names and passwords that come labelled to most new routers. These defaults allow for a quick and easy initial installation but should be changed immediately upon completion of setup. Ideally, the password should be long and random. Avoid any recognizable pattern of letters or numbers. No words you would find in a dictionary. Certainly no birthdays, anniversaries, or other publicly-accessible likely letter or number sequences.

Use a random password generator, if possible, set to a minimum of 16 numbers and letters (both upper and lower case).

Set up a firewall

Strong passwords are a must, but the first line of defence should be your firewall. Most routers will have one already built-in. This will check data coming in and going out for any questionable usage. By checking sources and destinations against preset parameters, your firewall will block any illicit activity.

You can also run software firewalls on individual devices, allowing users to confirm whether some traffic should be allowed.

Enable MAC authentication for your users.

Rather than allowing nearly any wireless device access to your Wi-Fi, you can restrict access to only specific devices. Every device comes with a MAC address, and by using MAC authentication, you can limit network access to only those devices on the approved list of devices with approved MAC addresses.

Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) is arguably the best option for many businesses in staying safe and secure online. With encryption utilized throughout and keeping your data concealed, any cyber intruder that makes it past all your other defences would still find themselves unable to damage your system. VPN use has become more popular lately, so it’s worth your time to investigate this option.

Train your employees on safe Wi-Fi use

Much of the above could be rendered useless if your employees are not aware of safe network practices. Sensible password use, changing of passwords, deactivated firewalls, and more could open your Wi-Fi network to all sorts of bad actors.

Keep your employees and other users informed on best practices when it comes to keeping your network secure and ensuring they’re following all of the proper security protocols.

Common sense solutions prevent complex problems

You wouldn’t leave your house or car unlocked, would you? Doing so makes you vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and other problems. Your Wi-Fi network is no different. Fortunately, securing your Wi-Fi is nearly as simple as turning a key.

Following these common-sense solutions will go a long way in keeping your network and business safe and secure.