How to Create a Separate WiFi Network for your Smart Devices
Why isn’t one WiFi network enough? The answer is simple: security and privacy. These days, smart devices are gateways into our personal lives. While they are amazing and aid us in our everyday lives, it’s no secret that they can also leave us vulnerable. To combat the vulnerabilities, we take action. In this case by setting up separate WiFi networks for our smart devices.
Why you want a separate WiFi network
Like we said, Internet of Things (IoT) smart devices are channels to our private information. If you have multiple in your home that are connected to your router, then you have multiple opportunities for potential cyber-attacks. If cyber-attackers can get to your router, then they can get to everything.
No need to fear and throw out all of your smart devices just yet. You can protect yourself by setting up a separate network for all of your connected devices and another for all of your other devices.
How to create the separate WiFi network
There are a few approaches when it comes to setting up a separate WiFi network:
- Set up two completely different networks.
- Using one router, set up a guest network.
- Use two separate routers.
- Use a WiFi management tool to set up a separate network.
Let’s go into these options in a little more detail:
Two Separate Networks
You can set up two separate internet connections to your single router. This is definitely the most secure option, but not the most cost effective. Still, you can call your current internet service provider (ISP) or another to set up the second connection.
One Router and a Guest Network
Current routers allow you to set up a “guest network” within the router settings. If you know the username and password login to your router, you should be able to access the settings and set up the guest network.
When you set up the guest network, treat it like your personal network. Make sure that the name and password are strong and not easily cracked. Also, if the settings allow it, turn off any access to your local network resources to add more security. This way, your guests (no matter how much you may trust them) cannot get to your private information.
Two Separate Routers
This is the most complicated option, but it can work. You can invest in two separate routers that pair with your one internet connection. To do this requires proper connection and configuration. Unless everything is properly configured, your IoT devices may not be completely isolated.
Manage Your WiFi
Investing in a WiFi management tool is a great way to make sure that your regular devices and smart devices are inventoried and secure. A WiFi management solution like Optim does the work for you. The other options on this list can help you protect yourself from IoT security risks, but they require you to set things up yourself – or rely on a tech-savvy individual.
Optim is easy to set up and takes the guesswork out of your hands. Managing your WiFi keeps everything in check. Optim will show you your WiFi performance and trends across the entire network. Using machine learning (ML) algorithms, the tool automatically identifies and fixes problems.
OptimTM Managed Wi-Fi solution is available through reputable Service Providers – ask for it by name.
Final information you need to know
Whichever option you choose is up to you, but there are a few measures that you should always take regardless:
- Change all default passwords and usernames to something unique
- Make sure all passwords and usernames are long and strong
- Don’t repeat passwords and usernames across networks
- Always update firmware to your router(s) and IoT device(s) with the latest patches
You can learn more about home networking and Wi-Fi security with Actiontec’s Complete Guide to WiFi Networking. For the latest news in technology, check out Actiontec’s blog.