Our homes are more integrated than ever. From smart TVs and virtual assistants to security cameras and baby monitors, our home networks are full of devices that are constantly interacting with the Internet. But with all this comfort, there is a risk – if it is not properly protected, your home network will see as an open target.
So how to insure your home network in 2025? Don't worry – it's not rocket science. With a few ordinary steps, you can make your home network much safer. Let's walk through it.
Do you prefer to watch instead of reading? Here's a quick video guide
Update the settings of the default router
The acquisition of a new Wi-Fi router has default settings, for example:
- Administrator's default password and username
- Generic Wi-Fi Name (SSID)
- Open or weak encryption settings
Hackers are aware of these default settings, and if you do not change them, they will have easy access.
# Example via SSH on an OpenWRT-based router
ssh [email protected]
uci set system.@system[0].hostname='OpenExploitRouter'
uci commit system
passwd # change root password
What to do:
- Log in to your router (typically writing in your browser 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
- Rename the administrator username and password around something specific and unique
- Name your Wi-Fi network (SSID) something that is not related to your identity
- Remove remote management if you really need it
Use strong WiFi passwords using WPA3
In 2025, WPA3 is the latest Wi -Fi encryption standard and is safer than older versions such as WPA2 or WEP. If your network uses weak encryption or no password, hackers can quickly intercept or join in your traffic.
config wifi-iface
option device 'radio0'
option network 'lan'
option mode 'ap'
option ssid 'OpenExploitWiFi'
option encryption 'WPA3'
option key 'TiNCHnosENoI'
What to do:
- Allow WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 is not a choice)
- Set a strong, long password (eg “7TEACUP! ROCKET $ MUSIC42”, not “Password123”)
Keep your router firmware updated
Your router is the door holder for your home network. If it has an old firmware, it may have a sensitivity to the security holes.
opkg update
opkg list-upgradable
opkg upgrade
What to do:
- Check the router manufacturer's website or application to get regular firmware updates
- Some newer routers automatically refresh – if available
Set the guest network
Your guests do not need access to your primary network where your devices live. The guest network keeps things isolated.
uci set wireless.guest=wifi-iface
uci set wireless.guest.device='radio0'
uci set wireless.guest.mode='ap'
uci set wireless.guest.network='guest'
uci set wireless.guest.ssid='GuestWiFi'
uci set wireless.guest.encryption='psk2'
uci set wireless.guest.key='guestpassword123'
uci commit wireless
wifi reload
What to do:
- Set up your router settings guest Wi-Fi network
- Use a different password
- Turn on the insulation mode to prevent guests from seeing other guest devices
Lock all smart devices (IoT)
Smart pears, cameras, thermostats – they are all handy, but many are insecure directly from the box.
# Identify devices
nmap -sP 192.168.1.0/24
# Scan open ports
nmap -sV 192.168.1.105
# Disable UpnP
/etc/init.d/miniupnpd disable
/etc/init.d/miniupnpd stop
Tips:
- Reset the default passwords on each device
- Disable features you don't need (such as remote access)
- Keep your device a firmware up to date
- If possible, let the IoT devices connect to the guest network to better separate
Use a strong firewall
Most routers have built -in firewalls that block unwanted connections from outside.
/etc/init.d/firewall status
# OR
/etc/init.d/firewall restart
What to do:
- Make sure the router firewall is allowed
- Some routers allow additional firewall settings or allows the firewall tools to be installed-research if you are technically expert
Enable security at the device level
Every device in your network should have some basic protection.
# Enable UFW firewall
sudo ufw enable
sudo ufw default deny incoming
sudo ufw allow out
sudo ufw allow ssh
Must-Dos:
- Install antivirus and paintings on computers and laptops
- Allow the device to encrypt on phones and computers
- Find out screen locks and secure passwords/pins on each device
Use DNS filter or parental controls
DNS filtering solutions such as Opendns, Cloudflare Family DNS or Cleanbrowsing allow you to avoid access to harmful websites. Even when the evil link clicks, the DNS filter can prevent connection from a harmful site.
# Cloudflare's Family Filter
sudo nano /etc/resolv.conf
# Add:
nameserver 1.1.1.3
nameserver 1.0.0.3
How to do this:
- Set the router or single devices to use a secure DNS service
- Use parental control software for children's equipment to limit the screen time and block the deplorable content
Disable unused functions
Numerous routers offer features such as universal plug and game (UPNP), remote management and WPS (Wi-Fi protected setup). They can be comfortable, but also invite attacks.
# Disable WPS
uci set wireless.radio0.disabled=1
uci commit wireless
wifi reload
# Disable remote access
uci delete uhttpd.main.listen_https
uci delete uhttpd.main.listen_http
uci commit uhttpd
/etc/init.d/uhttpd restart
What to do:
- Disable UPNP, WPS and remote control if you don't need them
- Disable file/printer sharing online unless necessary
Use network tracking tools
You can use basic applications or router functionality to track your network:
# Discover connected devices
sudo apt install arp-scan
sudo arp-scan --interface=eth0 --localnet
# Real-time monitor
sudo apt install iftop
sudo iftop -i wlan0
- See which devices are attached
- Introduce users or block foreign equipment
- A record traffic (in top -level routers)
Recommended tools:
- The built -in dashboard of the router
- Trend by Micro applications such as finger, glass star or home network security
Use VPN in public networks (and if necessary at home)
VPN (virtual private networks) encrypt your traffic and mask your IP address.
# OpenVPN
sudo openvpn --config myvpnconfig.ovpn
# Router-wide VPN
opkg update
opkg install openvpn-openssl luci-app-openvpn
/etc/init.d/openvpn start
For ordinary users:
- Use a reliable VPN when using public WiFi (cafes, airports)
- Use a router VPN if you want to encrypt traffic on all devices
Back up for critical data periodically
Even with the strongest security, things go wrong. A good backup keeps your personal files protected from ransomware or hardware failure.
# rsync to external drive
rsync -av --delete ~/Documents /media/user/OpenExploitBackupDrive
# Automated cron job
crontab -e
0 2 * * * rsync -av --delete ~/Documents /media/user/OpenExploitBackupDrive
What to do:
- Use cloud backups (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive)
- Also hold back out of the external hard disk
- Are backups automatic and frequent
Final thoughts: Security is a habit
Creating a safe home network in 2025 does not mean making thousands of dollars or becoming a cyber security guru. It is about making smart, simple decisions and developing good habits. After you are used to routine checks, software update and strong passwords, these habits become a different nature.
Take time to scan your home network today. An hour or two used to lock your home may prevent you from a significant data violation, hijacked identity, or worse.
Be safe, be smart and enjoy the world of confidence.
