Is your router putting you at risk? 5 ways to secure your home network

(BPT) - The digital world is constantly changing, and with it, the threat landscape. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and as a result, our online security needs to be more robust than ever.Your home network does not just connect you to the internet; your WiFi router or mesh system is also a virtual gateway to your home, your family and your personal information. That means your router is also the first line of defense against cyberattacks. It's not just about speed and performance — it's about choosing a device that helps protect your security and privacy.Here are five things to keep in mind to help secure your home router when threats are on the rise:1. Start with the basics: Secure your router with strong passwords and frequent updatesOne of the most fundamental steps to securing your network is setting a strong password for your router. Avoid using simple, easy-to-guess phrases or sequential numbers. Instead, create a long, complex password with a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. This is your first line of defense against unauthorized access.In addition, ensuring your router's firmware is up to date is crucial. Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve functionality, so make sure your router is equipped with the latest patches. Some routers, including those from NETGEAR, come with automatic firmware updates to make this process even easier, helping protect your router from the latest threats.2. Choose a trusted brandWhen shopping for a router, it's important to consider not only performance but also how the brand helps to keep your family and your data safe online. With cyber threats constantly evolving, you want a router from a trusted brand that's committed to helping safeguard your network. Look for a company that offers security features out of the box and additional layers of protection to defend against both known and emerging threats.Founded and based in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR has been pioneering WiFi innovation for nearly 30 years with an unrelenting focus on customer security and privacy. NETGEAR was among the first signatories of the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency's (CISA) initiative. This commitment ensures that products are built with security in mind. NETGEAR routers and mesh systems come with the latest security features such as advanced encryption, automatic firmware updates, firewall, VPN and NETGEAR's Advanced Router Protection. This feature helps protect your router by recognizing and helping to block exploitation attempts. Additionally, it includes a rapid response mechanism to significantly reduce the time it takes to address security issues.3. Consider extra protection with subscription-based security servicesWhile basic security features are essential, additional layers of protection can give you added peace of mind. Subscription services like NETGEAR Armor™ Powered by Bitdefender provide online protection, blocking malware, viruses, spyware and phishing attempts before they can reach your devices. This service goes beyond traditional antivirus software, as it operates directly on your router, helping protect the devices connected to your network, including security cameras, baby monitors and other smart home devices.NETGEAR Armor also includes advanced features like a VPN for encrypting your internet traffic. This level of protection extends even when you're using your mobile devices on unfamiliar networks, helping protect your privacy and security whether you're at home or on-the-go. For those who want even more robust protection, NETGEAR Armor Plus offers unlimited VPN access, ad-blocking and anti-tracking features, keeping your online activity, identity and location more private.4. Ensure your privacy is protectedWhen purchasing a router, consider not only the features but also the company's privacy practices. Many tech companies use personal data as a revenue stream, selling it to advertisers or other third parties. This is a practice you should keep an eye out for and avoid when selecting a router, as your privacy should be a top priority.NETGEAR is committed to transparency and privacy. With products designed in the USA, the company adheres to strict privacy laws, ensuring that your personal data remains protected. NETGEAR's privacy policy is clear and straightforward: they will never sell your personal information. If this is important to you, choosing a company with this level of commitment to privacy is essential in today's data-driven world.5. Look for a brand that innovates and upholds integrityThe world of connectivity is always evolving, and to stay ahead of cyber threats, you need a router from a brand that innovates and is guided by integrity.Operating in the heart of Silicon Valley, NETGEAR is at the forefront of new technology, working with WiFi chipmakers and device manufacturers to help ensure smooth operation in your smart home and interoperability with the widest range of end point devices available. As a brand trusted by millions of households and named by Newsweek as one of the World's Most Trustworthy Companies, NETGEAR considers integrity a key pillar of its business.While cyber threats are abundant, you don't have to be an IT expert to protect your home. By choosing a trusted brand like NETGEAR, which combines top-notch performance with powerful security features and a commitment to privacy, you can connect with confidence knowing you're backed by a company that truly cares. Read more about why NETGEAR is a trusted brand for WiFi at NETGEAR.com.