Most of us have a Wireless Router in our home. We tend to set these up and then forget about them unless we need to occasionally reboot them or give someone access to our wireless network.
This is a problem because many people have not updated their routers for years and some don’t have security measures in place that protect them from hackers and malware.
If your router is more than a few years old it is probably time to replace it. Security measures that were standard a few years ago are no longer adequate. Newer types of security are now used and many older routers don’t offer those updated features.
Criminals now have more tools than ever. There are databases online that are easily accessible to anyone. These databases hold lists of known vulnerabilities for specific routers. You just need to know the router make and model. This makes it easier for hackers to break in.
Many users never changed the username and password for the router during the initial setup so anyone who knows that information can gain access. This information is also easily found online.
We now live in the age of “The internet of things” we have all kinds of devices connected to our home network. Computers, tablets, phones, refrigerators, furnaces, home security systems, baby monitors, webcams and even light bulbs. All of these are connected to your router so even if you take steps to secure each device if your router is vulnerable so is everything connected to it.
So how do you know if it is time to replace your router?
- The router can no longer receive firmware updates. Updating the firmware can add new features to the router. Firmware also includes security patches and updates. Some routers are set to automatically download and install the most current firmware. On others it needs to be done manually. Check your router and be sure it is up to date. If the manufacturer is no longer releasing updates, it is time to replace the router. You can visit the manufacturers website and find your router make and model to see if any new firmware is available. Many manufacturers have “end of life” lists which will show the date that the router is no longer supported. Most experts recommend replacing your router every 3-5 years.
- Another sign your router may need updated is poor performance. Issues like slowness and disconnects are signs there is a problem with the router. Sometimes it is hard to determine if the issue is your internet connection or the router. See my previous article Are You Getting the Internet Speeds you are Paying for
- The router feels hot, or the fans are noisy. This can be a sign of an aging router. All hardware goes bad. If you notice this with your router, check the warranty status. If it is still under warranty, contact the manufacture. If it is out of warranty replace it. Overheating and faulty fans can be a fire hazard.
- If your router is more than 5 years old replace it. Many new security features have been released in that time and updating will help protect your home network and all connected devices.
- If you pay your ISP for a router, consider buying your own. Paying a rental fee is costly and purchasing your own router will pay for itself very quickly. The typical cost to rent from an ISP is anywhere from $5.00–$15.00 per month. That adds up to $60.00–$180.00 per year and up to $900.00 over five years.
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on a new router. Shop around and read some reviews before buying. Be sure that the router you are purchasing is compatible with your ISP. Most have a list of supported routers on their website.
Talk to a computer tech you know and do some research online. Most of the time the people who work at the local big box stores are not the best person to ask for a recommendation. Most are not trained in network security.
When you get your new router home be sure to fully secure it when setting it up. The first thing you want to do is change the default username and password and then check for any updates.
Choose a complex, strong password and change it regularly.
See my previous column here on how to secure your wireless router. Secure Your Wireless Router
Taking the time to fully secure your network is important for your ongoing safety.
Stick with the well-known, well reviewed brands such as Linksys, Netgear, Asus, TPlink and Google. Avoid brands you have never heard of.
The Tech Minimalist 