Your Router May Be the Weakest Link in Your Home Network
– By #Midstate IT Team
When most people think about online security, they think about antivirus software or avoiding suspicious emails.
But what about your router?
Your router connects nearly everything in your home to the internet—phones, computers, smart TVs, security cameras and more. That makes it an important part of keeping your home network safe.
Protect More Than Just Your Computer
Antivirus software protects the device it is installed on. But many devices in your home—such as smart TVs, cameras and thermostats—cannot run antivirus software.
That is why security at the router is so important.
A Secure Network Starts at the Router
Your router does much more than provide WiFi. It is also an important part of protecting your entire home network.
With a Midstate router and Managed WiFi, we can help keep your equipment updated, secure, and working properly. That gives you an added layer of protection for all the devices connected in your home—not just the ones with antivirus software.
Many Midstate customers already have a router from us, so our team helps address many of these security concerns for you.
Did You Buy Your Router Somewhere Else?
If you purchased your router from a store, online retailer or another company, there are a few things you should check.
Default Passwords
Some routers come with a standard username and password from the manufacturer. If those settings are never changed, they may be easier for someone to access.
Use a strong, unique password for your router.
Midstate difference: Routers through Midstate are set up with updated usernames and passwords to help prevent unauthorized access.
Missed Security Updates
Routers use software called firmware. Just like your phone or computer, that software needs updates from time to time.
These updates can fix security problems and help keep your router working properly.
Midstate difference: Midstate's Managed WiFi comes with regular firmware updates that are installed remotely on routers leased through us. Managed WiFi from Midstate comes with the CommandIQ app that you can have on your phone. This app includes ProtectIQ, which works through your router to help protect the devices connected to your home network. ProtectIQ can help block malware, viruses, ransomware and known dangerous websites before they reach your devices. If a threat is blocked, you can receive a notification through the app letting you know what happened.
An Older Router
Routers don’t last forever. As they get older, manufacturers may stop providing security updates.
If your router is five years old or older, it may be time to check whether it is still supported.
Midstate difference: If you lease your router from Midstate, we will contact you when it is time to upgrade.
Low-Cost Equipment
A bargain router or WiFi extender may save money, but some lower-cost or unknown brands may not receive regular security updates.
Choosing dependable equipment from a trusted manufacturer can make a difference.
Midstate difference: Midstate offers high-quality routers and WiFi extenders designed for reliable performance and security.
Have Questions About Your Router?
Not sure how old your router is, whether it is still secure or if Managed WiFi is right for your home? Midstate can help.
Visit midstatesd.net or call or text Midstate Communications at 605-778-6221. Our team is happy to help.
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