Simple Router Security Tips to Protect Your Home Network
During a recent Security Now podcast episode, Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte tackled an essential question from a listener: What’s the best residential router for non-technical folks?
The listener wants to replace their parents’ router with something secure and easy to set up.
They are worried about firmware updates and the security risks associated with their old TP-Link router. While they’d heard of more advanced solutions like PF Sense, they weren’t confident configuring it correctly.
This is a common issue. How do you ensure your home network is secure without needing to be a tech expert?
Fortunately, Steve and Leo provided excellent and easy-to-follow advice. I want to pass it on to you, so let's review what they said.
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Start with a Budget-Friendly, Reliable Router
Steve recommended starting with a solid router brand like ASUS. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to secure your home network. ASUS offers great, reliable routers out of the box.
"I'd spent $66 on a budget-friendly ASUS model," Steve noted, mentioning a specific, budget-friendly ASUS Wi-Fi router he found on Amazon.
This is a great starting point for most people, especially non-technical users. It doesn’t break the bank, but it offers solid security features.
Avoid Paying for Features You Don’t Need
Leo highlighted that many routers come packed with features the average user might never need. From antennas designed for gaming to unnecessary quality-of-service (QoS) settings, these extras can inflate prices without adding much value to non-technical users.
"I just think there’s a lot of stuff you're paying for that most people don’t need," Leo said, urging listeners to stick with the essentials.
For those buying a router for parents or others who don’t need advanced features, Leo suggested simple, affordable options like an entry-level ASUS router, which costs about $66. This model provides the necessary security without the unnecessary bells and whistles.
Avoid Risky, Fancy Features
While most routers have attractive features like remote WAN-side admin or built-in media servers, these can introduce significant security risks. Steve emphasized the importance of sticking to the basics.
"Don't just flip a switch in your router to turn that stuff on. That's where you get into trouble," Steve warned.
Instead of turning on features you may not fully understand, focus on securing your network by sticking to what’s necessary and secure.
Turning on additional features like UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) or WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) can lead to vulnerabilities for the average user. Steve and Leo recommended disabling these options to keep your network safer.
Leo reminded listeners to "Turn off WPS and UPnP," emphasizing that these simple steps can significantly increase the security of their home network.
Keep Firmware Updated Automatically
One of the most effective ways to maintain router security is to ensure your router’s firmware is always up to date.
Many modern routers, including ASUS models, now offer automatic firmware updates. This is a simple, no-fuss way to ensure your network stays secure without needing constant attention.
"Turn on automatic firmware updating since that's a feature now available in consumer routers, and it just makes sense," Steve pointed out.
You can protect your router from newly discovered vulnerabilities by enabling automatic updates.
Even if your router starts with secure settings, without firmware updates, you could be leaving your network exposed.
The good news is, most modern routers can handle these updates on their own—just make sure the setting is turned on.
Consider Mesh Systems for Larger Homes
Steve and Leo recommended investing in a mesh Wi-Fi system if your home has large Wi-Fi dead zones.
Mesh systems like Eero are known for being user-friendly and providing excellent security. They offer a seamless internet experience across the house.
"Larger installations, bigger homes, mesh systems are often a good way to go. Eero makes a very good, very easy-to-use mesh system with excellent security as well," Leo pointed out.
Mesh networks, like Eero, extend Wi-Fi coverage by using multiple nodes to blanket a large area. This makes them perfect for larger homes with more than one router to reach every corner.
If you want to stay within the ASUS ecosystem, their AI Mesh technology is also an excellent solution.
Leo mentioned that while he hadn’t personally tested it, ASUS's reputation for solid technology made it a good option.
Final Tips for Router Security
Steve and Leo closed the discussion with practical advice on ensuring your router's security.
For non-technical users, the key is to keep it simple: choose a reliable router, disable unnecessary features like UPnP and WPS, and enable automatic updates.
"They just need a generic small office/home office NAT router," Steve explained, emphasizing that non-tech-savvy users don't need to overcomplicate things.
A basic NAT router, like those from ASUS, can provide excellent security when configured correctly.
For those interested in learning more about router security, Steve recommended visiting Michael Horowitz’s website, RouterSecurity.org.
This fantastic resource, created by a listener, is for anyone wanting more detailed information about routers.
Wrapping Up
You don’t need to be a tech expert to secure your home network.
Following Steve and Leo’s advice, a budget-friendly ASUS router with automatic updates and disabling unnecessary features will protect your home network.
If you live in a larger home, a mesh system like Eero or ASUS AI Mesh can offer better coverage and the same level of security.
These steps allow you to keep your network safe without needing advanced technical knowledge. As Steve and Leo pointed out, security doesn’t have to be complicated!
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