When we buy a new router , either because it is provided by the operator or because we have purchased one, we must take into account the default values. The factory brings a configuration that is not the best. It comes ready to go and we may have no problems. However there are certain parameters that should be changed as soon as we receive the device. In this way we can improve security and also performance.
Security changes on a new router
Security is undoubtedly a very important factor. Wireless networks can be attacked by possible intruders in order to obtain personal information or access our router. For this we must take into account some basic configurations and that we must change with respect to their initial state. We are going to see what changes need to be made in a router to avoid following the factory settings and improve security.
Change the password of the router
A fundamental step that we can consider as a key is to change the password to access the router . Normally when we acquire a new device it is predetermined so that we enter with credentials of the type admin, admin or 1234, 1234. It may also bring a random password pasted on the bottom of the device.
It is wrong to keep those generic keys. The ideal is to change it for another that is more complex, totally random created by us. This will make the work of a possible intruder as difficult as possible.
Set strong Wi-Fi password
Of course something similar must be done with the Wi-Fi password . The factory will be assigned a password that, once again, will appear on the bottom of the device. In certain routers it can be easy for someone with the necessary knowledge to break that password.
Therefore if we have acquired a new router one of the most important steps is to change the password that comes from the factory. But in addition we must also ensure that the encryption we are using is correct, since some are obsolete and can be a security problem.
Rename the network
This is something that many users overlook but we recommend doing. Normally, the name of the router or operator we are using comes as standard in the network name.
On the one hand we can say that this can affect our privacy, since we are indicating which is our operator or what model we have. However, it can also affect security, since an intruder would know which router we have and in this way carry out attacks directed at that model and which can be successful.
Settings to optimize a new router
But beyond security, there are also different settings that we can take into account to optimize the router. This way we will make it work better, have certain interesting functions activated.
Update the firmware
This is not something that is essential in all cases, since we may have acquired a new router that is perfectly updated. However, our advice is to check whether or not you have the latest firmware .
It is important to always have the latest versions on all types of systems and devices that we use. In this way we can make it work better, correct possible failures and also preserve security.
Change the channel where we are connected
Normally, our router is configured to use a specific channel or by car. Is it what interests us most or will it be better to change to another channel? This will also depend on each user, where they connect and the circumstances.
If for example we are in a large building surrounded by many networks, it is very likely that there are other neighbors who use the same channel or a nearby one. Therefore our advice is to analyze which channels are more saturated and choose a free one and as far away from the most present as possible.
Create a guest network
Another optional question but that we think is interesting is to create a network of guests . This by itself will not make our connection work better, but it will offer us some functionality that we can take advantage of.
By default our router does not have an activated guest network. However we can create one so that other users can connect and thus not compromise the main password or even not limit bandwidth.
Ability to activate the 5 GHz band
Finally, another change that some routers need to make to optimize it to the maximum is to activate the 5 GHz band . It is not something we should do at all, far from it. However, some only have the 2.4 GHz band activated. Our advice is to activate both, we already know that each has its advantages.
In short, these are some changes that we must make when we have a new router. Some characteristics that we must change from the factory.