Checking your Wi-Fi network security settings periodically helps you catch problems before they become incidents. Here is what to look for and how to find it.
Open a browser and navigate to your router's admin address, usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Log in with your admin credentials. If you have never changed the default admin password, change it now before anything else.
Go to your wireless settings and look for the security mode or encryption type. It should say WPA3 or WPA2-AES. If it says WPA, WEP, or Open, your network is using outdated or no encryption and needs to be changed immediately.
Most routers have a page that lists every device currently connected, often called DHCP clients or Connected devices. Review the list. If you see a device you do not recognize, investigate it. Unrecognized devices could be a neighbor using your network or a compromised device.
Router firmware updates include security patches. Look for a Firmware Update option in your router settings, usually under Administration or Advanced. If an update is available, install it.
Under your router's firewall or security settings, look for Port Forwarding rules. If you see rules for ports you did not set up, investigate them. Legitimate port forwarding rules are usually set up intentionally for specific applications or devices.