WI-FI experts at Microsoft have revealed how being too welcoming to guests can leave your router in a bad way.
As well as risking your password, a compromised device connecting to your network could lead to a router bug that impacts your speed.
Microsoft explains this issue on its support website.
It states: “Be welcoming but not TOO welcoming.
“If your router supports guest Wi-Fi you should turn that on and when guests need to connect to your Wi-Fi have them connect to the guest Wi-Fi.
“Most modern routers support guest Wi-Fi and the special trick of it is that guest Wi-Fi is a separate wireless network.”
The tech giant goes as far as to recommend setting up a guest network for your own non-essential smart devices.
It argues that if any of those devices get compromised, the cybercriminal can’t use them to access your more important tech.
If your router has a corresponding app, you might be able to set up a guest network via its settings.
Generally, guest networks can be set up by typing your router’s IP address into a browser.
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Enter your username and password to get to an admin page.
This should show if setting up a guest network is possible.
If it is, select the option and create a new login to give out to guests.
Using a guest network is something the FTC recommends.
The US security agency stresses the importance of the guest network saying: “In case a guest (unknowingly) has malware on their phone or tablet, it won’t get onto your primary network and your devices.”
It’s also advisable to make sure your Wi-Fi has the newest software available so you’re not missing any security updates.
