Is your wireless network’s name a security risk?

Many businesses have embraced wireless connectivity as a faster and more convenient way to access the internet. But just like anything associated with privacy, having Wi-Fi doesn’t come without risks. Criminals can get their hands on valuable company or customer data if you don’t keep your network secure.

Fortunately, to combat these concerns, internet solutions providers have a number of measures in place to keep their customer accounts safe. Standard security policies include using firewalls and unique encryption keys. If you sign up with a reputable provider, they will offer you these protective measures.

But you must also do your part in beefing up the security for your wireless network so you can enjoy peace of mind when you go online at your business. Many business owners don’t realize that their network name and password are vulnerable points of attack that hackers use to access their network. Here’s how to choose the best network name and password to lessen the chances of having your network breached.

 Reset the default configurations on your router

When your router is installed, the internet service provider will initially pick a name and password for you. Often, they will configure it with the default network name and password which is found on the sticker on the router or the documentation that came with it. To secure your network (also known as SSID, or Service Set Identifier), you need to personalise the default configurations with something that’s easy to remember but hard to crack. This is an essential step because the default passwords for manufacturer SSID names are often widely known by criminals. Hackers have built a password-cracking list of names known as a “rainbow table” to find the WPA details quickly if they can see the make and model of your router.

Use a hard to guess passphrase 

In addition to default passphrases, choosing obvious company information that identifies your business is a lock that’s easy to pick. Whilst it’s customary to use the company name as a moniker, it’s best to avoid common names such as “Companywifi” and passwords such as “admin” as hackers are aware of this trend, and can quickly get a hold of your network. Be sure to change the login credentials regularly as well as when employees leave the company. Know that even if you disable your SSID from being publicly broadcasted, hackers with the right tools can still tap into your traffic.

According to a survey by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, the most vulnerable passwords worldwide are: 

– 123456

– 123456789

– qwerty

– password

– 111111

– 12345678

– abc123

– 1234567

– password1

– 12345

If your password is on this list, it’s time for a change. The strongest passwords are: 

– At least 25 characters long 

– Comprise of a combination of letters (upper and lower case), numerals and symbols. 

– Totally random but easy to remember

– Words modified with numbers and characters, for example, @dm!n!$trat0r

– Short phrases (think of a famous quotes like “YouShallNotPass.”) 

Some people put a lot of effort into choosing an SSID name and password. Others get too carried away. Below are examples of network names discovered online that are clever, creative, funny, or just surprising to inspire you when thinking of a new name. 

– Benjamin FrankLAN

– Martin Router King

– I Believe Wi Can Fi

– Winternet Is Coming

– The Promised LAN

– Virus-Infected Wi-Fi

– Text ###-#### for Password

– 404 Wi-Fi Unavailable

– Drop It Like It’s Hotspot

– The Creep Next Door

Having a network name and password that’s easy to crack is like leaving your front door open. It means that anyone can come in and steal information shared and stored on your network. This could result in serious financial loss or other troubles for your business. Strengthening your network setup is as simple as logging into your account online, going into the settings, and entering your new details.