There are many times when it is convenient to change routers. For example, if you see that the speed is not adequate, if cuts appear or if you directly cannot connect many devices. Once you buy a new router, the question may arise as to whether or not it is convenient to put the same name and password on the WiFi network . In this article we are going to talk about it. Can we have problems for using the same?
What happens if you reuse WiFi name and password
For convenience, when you change routers you may decide to put the same name and password that you already had. In this way you will not have to remember a new password and everything will be easier to link devices. In fact, due to the large number of devices that we can have connected to the network, this can be more useful today.
It is possible to configure the router in such a way that you do not have to change the password on all devices. To do this you must configure it as it was the previous one. That is, you have to use the same name or SSID, the same password and the same WiFi key encryption. But this can become a problem.
Weak password
One problem is if you are going to change routers and use a weak password. That could mean that an intruder breaks that key to access the wireless network. Keep in mind that it is the main security barrier that will prevent someone from connecting a device to WiFi without permission.
But it can even be a problem simply because it is convenient to renew passwords from time to time and using the same one that you used previously can be a mistake. Think of the case that someone has found out that key due to some vulnerability of the router, for example, and now reuses it for the new router that you have bought.
old cipher
Another problem with reusing the WiFi name and password from an older router is that you may be using old encryption. This is common with older devices as they do not have WPA3 encryption or even in some cases not even WPA2 encryption. This can lead an attacker to exploit flaws and steal the password.
Therefore, if you are going to change your router, the ideal is that you use current encryption, as robust as possible. If it can be WPA3, the better. However, WPA2 encryption is also secure as long as you have your router up to date. You can always check Wi-Fi security and thus avoid problems with intruders.
Change router settings
As you can see, using the same WiFi name and password on a new router can cause problems. The ideal is to change the configuration that comes from the factory and create a key that is unique, strong and totally secure. This will reduce the risk of attacks that allow intruders to enter the network.
A good idea is to use a long password, which has all kinds of symbols, letters (both upper and lower case) and numbers. You can help yourself with a password manager to create them. You should never use a key that you have already used, as that would reduce security.
You should also make sure to change some defaults, like the network name or encryption type. Also, it’s a good idea to create a guest network. If you did not have one in the old router, you have the opportunity to create it in this new one and thus allow other people who visit you to connect without compromising security.