Having a strong and unique password for your home Wi-Fi network is one of the easiest ways to ensure security. While it may seem inconsequential, periodically updating your Wi-Fi network password safeguards all devices connected to it from unauthorised access. Even if you have a password set up already, it is recommended that you change it every few months as an added safety measure. The good news is that altering your Wi-Fi password to a new one only takes a few minutes.
In this straightforward, step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the entire process of changing your password tailored to your specific wifi router for home make and model. Whether you haven’t updated your password in years or simply want to refresh it, follow these simple instructions to change wifi password seamlessly within minutes.
Here are the steps on how to change ACT wifi password:
You must first access your router's admin interface panel to change wifi password. Connect a device to your router via an ethernet cable or WiFi network. Open a web browser and type the router's IP address in the address bar, usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Consult your router manual if unsure. Press enter to reach the login screen.
You may need to enter default admin credentials on the router login screen to access settings. If prompted, check the router documentation for the default username and password. Enter these at the prompt to get into the admin interface. This grants you access to customise network settings.
Once logged into your router's admin screen, navigate to the "Wireless" or "WiFi" tabs or menu options. This section should contain fields like "Network Key," "Security Passphrase," or other password fields. This is where you can update your WiFi password.
In the WiFi password field, delete the current password or security key. Then, enter your new desired WiFi password for enhanced security. Be sure to create a strong password that uses upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and 8+ random characters.
If necessary, carefully retype the new password in the confirm field. Then, save the changes by clicking "Apply," "Submit," or "Save" on the router admin screen. This will update systems with your new WiFi network passphrase.
After the update, all WiFi gadgets will need to reenter passwords. Go to network settings on each phone, computer, tablet, etc. Select your WiFi and type the new password when prompted to connect. You may need to forget the old network first.
Finally, verify that all gadgets reconnect without issue. Browse the internet, use apps, and stream video to confirm that the new password works across your secure network. After entering the new WiFi passphrase, test a couple of websites on each device.
Here are the reasons why it becomes essential to change your wi-fi password:
Changing your default Wi-Fi password improves the security of your home network. Default router passwords are widely known and easily searchable online, making them easy targets for hackers. However, keeping the same Wi-Fi password for several years also allows intruders more time to crack and access your network illegally.
Regularly updating your password to a new, unique one protects against unauthorised access and prevents malware or viruses from infecting your devices.
Updating your Wi-Fi password helps shield your personal identity and browsing data from theft and misuse. An old or reused password can allow cybercriminals to steal your private information, leading to identity fraud.
Changing your Wi-Fi password safeguards your home network activity, financial logins, online accounts, connected devices, and sensitive personal files from falling into the wrong hands.
The default Wi-Fi password set by your internet wifi providers near me enables strangers to peek into your connected devices and network activity. However, switching your router's password prevents unauthorised people, like hackers and neighbours, from spying, accessing, or connecting to your network. It maintains privacy over your internet usage and for all devices linked to the network.
Part of maintaining good cyber security hygiene involves changing passwords routinely. Router manufacturers recommend immediately updating default passwords to unique ones and then periodically refreshing your Wi-Fi passwords.
Using the same for several years or reused across accounts substantially raises the risks of security issues. Changing Wi-Fi passwords intermittently is vital for practising responsible network safety protocols.
Knowing your home Wi-Fi network and connected systems are highly secure and private provides immense comfort and peace of mind. Changing the router password is a precautionary measure that lets you rest easy knowing that only you and authorised people have network access. It dramatically reduces anxieties or concerns over data theft, identity fraud or spying by unwanted intruders looking to exploit default passwords.
Below are some important tips for changing your wi-fi password:
1. Choose Strong Password: When updating WiFi password, create a complex passphrase that would be extremely difficult for others to guess. Use random upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.
2. Increase Complexity: To boost complexity, aim for a minimum of 12 characters in the password. The more arbitrary the password, the harder it is to decipher.
3. Avoid Common Terms: Never include easy-to-guess words or phrases in the password. Also, do not use personal information, dictionary terms, repetitive characters, or number patterns.
4. Use Password Manager: Consider a password manager tool to automatically generate and remember very strong, random passwords for you. This prevents weak passphrases.
5. Change Password Regularly: Update the WiFi password every few months as an extra security safeguard. Also, change immediately if you suspect a breach.
6. Store Password Securely: Keep your updated password in a safe, secure place. Write it down or save it in an encrypted password manager app, out of plain sight.
Occasionally, changing your Wi-Fi password is an essential step to reinforce security, whether you've had your password for years or just want an added layer of protection. As seen above, altering your wireless network security key is quick and straightforward, following just a few primary steps.
Ensure you pick a strong password and store it somewhere safe in case you forget. Changing this one setting greatly reduces the risk of intruders accessing your network and connected smart devices. So don't skip out on this basic security practice—periodically update your home Wi-Fi password for complete peace of mind.
