There’s a vast range of security problems that could arise if you don’t take suitable steps to securing your wireless network.

1.       Change the default usernames and passwords. When you first set up your wireless network hub in your home, you will be provided with a wireless network username and password to gain access to it and surf the internet. These usernames and passwords can be easily hacked, so change them immediately.

2.       Turn on your WPA / WEP encryption. Encryption technology changes the data so that it becomes scrambled and therefore, much more difficult to interpret by humans. All computers that operate through your wireless network will need to be compatible with these encryption settings.

3.       Don’t use the default SSID. Generally, manufacturers will use the same SSID for all their routers and access points. For example, “BTHomeHub” or “Netgear” will appear on the list of available networks. A hacker will see this and know that it is a poorly configured wireless connection.

4.       Turn on MAC address filtering. All Wi-Fi equipment has a ‘physical address’, or ‘MAC address’. Routers keep a list of connecting MAC addresses, but users can use their MAC address of their home equipment and restricts the network to only allowing users from that address. However, it is possible for hackers to fake a MAC address.

5.       Turn off SSID broadcast. Wireless access points and routers will regularly broadcast the SSID or network name so that users can find the wireless connection they need, then log onto it. It increases your likelihood of being selected for hacking, and home users don’t need this roaming feature, so you should disable it.

6.       Disable auto-connect to open Wi-Fi networks option. Many Wi-Fi networks don’t need a password or username to connect to them and your computer may be set to connect to these automatically. These should only be used as a temporary option, as it leave your computer open to attacks.

7.       Set static IP addresses to devices. The majority of home network users will be using dynamic IP addresses which are easy to set up, but work in favour of network attackers who can easily access this information.

8.       Add a firewall to every computer on the router. Most modern routers have a firewall built in, but this can be switched off. Make sure your router’s firewall is switched on. For further protection, consider adding personal firewall software to all the computers on your wireless network or for even greater protection, firewall hardware or a VPN.

9.       Put your router in the safest place. Your wireless signal can travel a long way, so try to keep it in the centre of your home, rather than next to your window.

10.   Turn the network off when not in use. If you’re going on holiday or not planning on using your wireless router for an extended period of time, switch it off.