Firewalls
Cyber Essentials — Firewalls
The Cyber Essentials Firewalls control covers the security boundary between your devices and the internet. A correctly configured firewall blocks unsolicited incoming connections before they can reach your devices or network. These guides walk you through every Firewalls requirement for home users and small businesses.
What this control covers
- ✓Change your router's default admin password
- ✓Enable your router's built-in firewall
- ✓Enable Windows Defender Firewall on all Windows devices
- ✓Review and close unnecessary open ports on your business router
Firewalls Guides (6)
- Change your router's default passwordYour router comes with a factory default password that is easy for attackers to guess. Change it to a strong, unique password.
- Enable your router's built-in firewallMost routers include a built-in firewall that filters incoming traffic. Check that it is switched on.
- Enable Windows Defender FirewallMake sure Windows Defender Firewall is turned on for both private and public networks on your Windows computer.
- Review firewall rules on your business routerCheck that only necessary ports are open on your business network router. Close any ports that are not required.
- Set up a guest Wi-Fi network at homeCreate a separate Wi-Fi network for visitors and smart home devices. A guest network isolates your main computers and phones from anything you do not fully control or trust.
- Be careful what you do on public Wi-Fi on your phoneAvoid accessing banking apps, email, or any account that contains sensitive information when connected to public Wi-Fi. Public networks in cafés, hotels, and airports are not secure.
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