Contents
In short
Your existing router is usually enough if firmware updates run automatically, the admin password is changed and Wi-Fi uses WPA3 or WPA2.
What is it?
The router connects all devices to the internet. Its settings decide who gets into your home network and which services can be reached from outside.
Who is it useful for?
Every household with an internet connection.
What does it protect against?
- Strangers joining your Wi-Fi
- Attacks via known router flaws (through updates)
- Guests or smart-home devices reaching your computers (through a guest network)
What does it not protect against?
- Insecure devices inside the network
- Phishing and account takeover
- Public Wi-Fi when you are out
What you can do for free
- 01Turn on automatic firmware updates
- 02Change the default admin password
- 03Use WPA3 or at least WPA2
- 04Set up a guest network for visitors and smart-home devices
- 05Turn off remote access and unneeded port forwarding
When is an extra product worth it?
A new router is worth it when yours no longer gets security updates or does not support WPA2/WPA3.
What to check when choosing
- Long-term security updates from the manufacturer
- WPA3 support
- Guest network feature
- Understandable interface
We deliberately name no products and publish no rankings.
Common mistakes
- Leaving the sticker admin password unchanged
- Leaving WPS permanently on
- Running all smart-home devices on the main network
Checklist
- Firmware up to date
- Own admin password
- WPA3/WPA2 on
- Guest network set up
- No unused remote access
Frequently asked questions
Must I change the Wi-Fi password on the sticker?
A long, random factory password is usually fine. Change the admin interface password if it is not individual.
How do I know if my router still gets updates?
In the router interface or on the manufacturer's product support page.
Sources
Checked on 6 Oct 2026.