How to Protect a Home Network

With the average price of personal computers falling in the last few years, it has become fashionable to have more than one computer at home. Some of these desktops and laptops are networked to share resources like Internet access, printers and scanners. Most of these home networks are not secure. Outsiders can log on to the network, surf the Internet and even hack into the systems. There are ways to secure your home network.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer

1. 
   Set up autoupdate

   Keep your software up to date. Some programs like Windows XP and Firefox will do this automatically but you must set them up correctly. To set up Windows XP to update automatically click "Start," "Control Panel," System and Automatic Updates." Change the setting to "Automatic," click "OK" and close the window.

2. Use Firewall. Downloading and installing a good firewall is one way to secure your home network. It stops intruders from breaking into your network from the Internet. Hackers scan the Internet for unsecured networks and a good firewall renders your system invisible. ZoneAlarm is free to download and use. Download it from the developer's website and install. Keep it up to date. See Resources below for additional information.

3. Run and update antivirus software regularly. Thousands of viruses and malwares circulate on the Internet looking for unsecured networks and systems to infect. Most antivirus programs will block these malicious programs from infecting your network. AVG Antivirus is free to download and use. Download it from the developer's website and install. See Resources below for additional information.

4. Use Antispyware programs. Antispyware and antilogging programs prevent installation of spyware and keystroke loggers in your system but you must install and update them regularly. Microsoft Windows Defender is free to download and use. Download it from Microsoft's website and install. See Resources below for more information.

5. Use a strong password when setting up your network. Your password should be a minimum of 14 characters and comprise a combination of letters and numbers.

6. 
   Set up secure network

   Change your router’s settings. If your wireless network permits it, use WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) protocol. They are harder to break. To know if your system permits WPA2, click "Start," "Control Panel" and "Network Connections." Right-click "Wireless Network Connection," select "Properties" then "Wireless Network." Find your network in "Preferred Networks," select your network, click "Properties," "Network Authentication," then select WPA2 or WPA-SK. Follow on-screen prompt and click "OK" when you are done.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice safe computing and safe browsing. Don’t open attachments from unknown persons. Back up your files regularly. Use Firefox browser instead of Microsoft Explorer. Firefox has a reputation for safety and the developers update it regularly.
• Keep all programs running on your computer updated. Not every program will update automatically so you may need to update them manually. Check the manufacturer’s website for instructions and updates. Failure to update your programs is the same as keeping the back door to your home open and inviting unscrupulous people in.
• Stay away from file sharing sites like Kazaa and LimeWire. They are hotbeds for viruses, spyware and keyloggers.

Resources

• Guide to protecting your home network
• Home network tutorial by Microsoft
• Download and use ZoneAlarm firewall free from here
• AVG Antivirus is free and available here
• Microsoft offers free antispyware