#Access my wifi router install#
#Access my wifi router update#
#Access my wifi router manual#

From there, make sure the “Enable UPnP” box is unchecked.Īnd last, if you have a guest network without a password, disable it. Find the “tools,” “advanced,” or “advanced networks” menu. To disable UPnP, log in to your router like you would when changing your password (see below). This feature can make it easier for malware to spread through your network. UPnP can help devices on your home network connect to each other, but the added convenience isn’t worth the security risk. In most routers, the feature is off by default, but you should confirm this by going to the advanced or administration section of the settings menu.ĭisable Universal Plug-and-Play (UPnP), which many home routers have enabled by default. This denies access to the router’s control panel from outside your home network. If you don’t use Remote Administration (also known as Remote Management or web access from WAN), make sure it’s turned off. So when you’re logged in to your router’s settings, take a minute to review applications that could present opportunities for hackers. Modern routers come with many handy features that help you manage your WiFi network, but some create weak spots in your defenses. Other recommended models include the Google Nest WiFi and the Eero Home WiFi. It’s also a mesh router: It comprises two units that work together to spread WiFi more evenly throughout your home. One smart pick for a relatively inexpensive wireless router that supports automatic firmware updating is the TP-Link Deco W6000, which costs around $150 and supports the latest WiFi standard, known as WiFi 6.

“Verify its status with the manufacturer, and if it has reached the ‘end of life’ stage, buy a new router.” “If you find your router is no longer getting updates, it’s too risky to keep using it,” Fisco says. Many brands offer that as an option during the online product registration process.Īll companies eventually stop releasing new software for old models, though. You can also see if there’s a way to get security notices via email from the router’s manufacturer when new software is available. Richard Fisco, who oversees electronics testing at Consumer Reports, says that to be safe you should check for new updates at least every three months.

#Access my wifi router install#

If your router doesn’t provide automatic updates, you’ll have to periodically download and install the new firmware from the manufacturer’s website yourself.

#Access my wifi router manual#

So consult the owner’s manual or do an online search for the customer support pages for your router model. You can do that by opening a web browser and typing in the device’s IP address. Newer routers make this relatively easy through a companion mobile app.įor other routers, you’ll need to look in the device’s settings.

#Access my wifi router update#

The easiest way to make sure your router always has the latest, safest software is to activate the automatic firmware update feature available on many of today’s models. Router manufacturers typically release software updates throughout the year to address security threats, fix bugs, and improve performance.