Today, with the increasing number of devices connected to routers, it is crucial to maintain router security to protect against cyber threats. Hackers are always looking for vulnerable routers to gain unauthorized access or to install malware that can harm the connected devices. Therefore, the security features of routers become very important.
Firewall
A firewall is a security feature that filters incoming and outgoing traffic, allowing only authorized traffic to pass through. The firewall inspects the data packets to ensure they are safe and are not related to any malicious activities. Most routers come with built-in firewalls that can be enabled and customized to meet the security needs of the network.
Encryption
Encryption is the process of converting plain text into cipher text to ensure data confidentiality. Routers can encrypt data in transit, which ensures that the data cannot be intercepted or compromised during transmission. Encryption can also be used to secure the login credentials of the router and the connected devices.
Updated firmware
Routers need firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities and add new features. It is essential to keep the router firmware updated to ensure that the latest security patches are installed. Unpatched routers can be vulnerable to exploit, making them a prime target for hackers.
MAC filtering
MAC filtering is a security feature that allows or denies access to the network based on the MAC address of the device. This feature ensures that only the allowed devices can access the network, and unauthorized devices are blocked. Although this feature can be bypassed, it still adds an extra layer of security to the network.
Conclusion
Router security features are essential in protecting your network and connected devices from cyber attackers. Features such as a firewall, encryption, updated firmware, and MAC filtering are some of the common security features built into routers. By enabling and customizing these features, you can keep your network safe from malicious activities and data theft.