Network Security – Router Maintenance

How many years has it been since you serviced your router?

Log in to your home router to perform the needed maintenance (e.g. update firmware) annually.

Even if you do everything right, your router can be vulnerable to hackers. Findings from a 2018 router firmware study found that 83% of the 186 home routers tested had firmware errors/vulnerabilities to hacking. The average number of vulnerabilities was 172.

So, while the network setup is a one-time activity, as the “router administrator,” you should plan on an occasional (at least annual) login to perform any needed maintenance; e.g. updating the router’s firmware from the router manufacturer’s website. If unsure how to do this, as it’s a very occasional and very important activity, consult a professional.

FOR FURTHER READING:
CyberGuardian: a SecureTheVillage Guide for Residents is available on Amazon.
A complete Security Checklist is available: https://www.nerdsiview.com/security-checklist-2/
References for Village Residents are available at SECURE THE VILLAGE: https://securethevillage.org/residents

Supplemental Articles:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/home-router-warning-theyre-riddled-with-known-flaws-and-run-ancient-unpatched-linux/