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FirewallsHigh priority

Change your router's default password

Your router comes with a factory default password that is easy for attackers to guess. Change it to a strong, unique password.

Why this matters

Attackers routinely scan home networks for routers using default passwords. Changing it is one of the simplest and highest-impact steps you can take.

How to do it

  1. Open a browser and go to your router's admin page — usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1
  2. Log in with the default credentials printed on your router
  3. Find 'Admin password' or 'Router password' in the settings
  4. Set a new password — at least 12 characters with letters, numbers, and a symbol
  5. Save the new password in your password manager

Cyber Essentials framework

This task falls under the Firewallscontrol — one of five areas assessed in the UK's Cyber Essentials scheme. Completing it counts toward your Cyber Essentials alignment.

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