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Securing your home router from a Windows PC

Your router is the front door to your whole home network, so a few minutes spent securing it protects every device you own. You can do all of this from your Windows PC in a browser.

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CE: Firewalls
A home wireless router

Cyber Nova AI helps you prepare for Cyber Essentials. It doesn't award or certify it. Follow the steps here to get ready, then apply for certification through an accredited Cyber Essentials body when you're set.

Get into the router settings

Open a browser and type your router's address, usually printed on a sticker on the router (often 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). Sign in with the admin details, also on the sticker.

Change the default admin password

If the router still uses the password printed on it, change it to something new and strong. This is the single most important step, because default passwords are widely known.

Turn on the firewall and update the firmware

In the settings, confirm the router firewall is on (it usually is). Look for a firmware or software update option and apply any updates. Firmware updates fix security flaws, just like Windows updates do.

Set up guest Wi-Fi

Most routers let you create a separate guest network. Use it for visitors and for smart-home gadgets, so they're kept apart from the PCs and phones that hold your personal information.

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