Where is the Network Security Key on My Router? (Quick Tip)
Although the vast majority of us interact with a network security key almost every passing day, we still don’t know what it is or even where to find it. Essentially, it is your unique Wi-Fi password. But, of course, it is much deeper than that, and in this article, we will demystify what a router’s network security is, what it does, and most importantly, where to find it on your router.
What is the Network Security Key on a Router?
The network security key on your router is a barricade between it and an unauthorized user. Your network security key performs the functions of a password; it keeps access to your router restricted. It prevents an unauthorized person from accessing your internet connection; however, it is deeper than that.
The essence of the network security key goes beyond preventing your neighbor or a passerby from connecting to your Wi-Fi and the data you acquired for the month. Hackers or phishers can access information about you by taking a look at your internet activities through your router.
As technology progresses, more methods of security compromise emerge. Unfortunately, they are also tricky and could put you in potential danger if you don’t take stringent measures against them.
For instance, according to research conducted by a governmental organization in the US, coming within 150 – 300 feet in proximity to your internet access point can expose you to piggybacking. Piggybacking is also possible from a distance of 1,000 feet, which means random people from streets away can also access your internet service.
While this is not always a bad thing, particularly if you have a neighbor that just wants free internet access, an evil-meaning individual may use this opportunity to access your private data, files, or even your internet activity.
Network security on your router strives to protect you from security breaches such as piggybacking, wardriving, and evil twin attacks. To protect yourself from violations such as these, you must choose a unique Wi-Fi password. Beyond that, it is best to restrict access to that password to a minimal number.
Where is the Network Security Key on My Router?
Since Internet Service Providers or ISPs label the network security key for their products distinctively, you may find it challenging to find yours. Chances are you’ve come across it before, but because of the tag your ISP has given it, you were thrown off.
Well, here are some familiar names ISPs give network security providers.
- WPA Key. For the record, WPA here is an acronym for Wi-Fi Protected Access
- Wireless Password
- Network Key
- Finally, one we are all very familiar with – Password.
Now that you know the different acronyms for network security, you can check the exterior of your router for a small sticker that contains your unique password. Sometimes, you’ll find it on the box the router comes in. This gives your network security easy access, and once you buy enough data, you’ll want to restrict access to it.
If you don’t personalize the password, this may become a problem, as the sticker may eventually fall off or even fade away. Once you access the sticker, you can change the password through your mobile phone or computer. Alternatively, if your computer is already connected to the router, you can easily access its password and change it.
Where to Find the Network Security Key on My Router?
If you have newly installed a router in your home, it comes with an array of numbers and characters, and most people may choose to keep this as their password. Well, that is a great idea, as it is almost impossible to guess this password.
However, it is also a complex password, and you may find it difficult to type in or even share with another person quickly. In addition, once you know where the network security key is on the router, you will find it very easy to change or personalize it.
When you find it on the sticker attached to the router or its box, you may follow this guide to choose a password that’ll protect you from piggybackers and other security threats that are technology-related.
- Refrain from Using Personalized Dates: a survey shows that 59% of people in the US use personalized dates as passwords. Another study shows that 81% of data breaches are caused by choosing a weak password. To prevent falling into this category, it’s best to avoid choosing personalized dates such as personal birthdays, anniversaries, and other significant dates that may be easy to guess.
- Avoid Dictionary Words: another common mistake people make when choosing a password is using a dictionary word. This may be easy to guess, mainly if the hacker is someone who knows you or people close to you.
- Use Numbers, Letters, and Symbols: This is one of the most secure methods of coining a unique password. Here’s a cheat sheet! You may use a combination of your favorite words, personal dates, and symbols. Once you throw this together in a unique way, it will be pretty impossible for a hacker to get through it and into your router.
- Password Generators: if you find it challenging to choose a password, you can rely on an automated password generator to create one for you. These passwords are usually unguessable, and once you get yours, you can write it somewhere safe or memorize it. However, not all password generators are free; you may have to pay for yours. But of course, that may be a small price to pay to prevent security breaches!
In Conclusion
Rampant security breaches are an indispensable part of evolving technology. If they are not well managed, we may be putting ourselves at significant risks. Hackers may access sensitive information, our precise location, and internet footprints.
Thankfully, there are several ways to combat these breaches, such as using a solid VPN, restricting physical access to our internet-connected devices, and, most importantly, choosing strong and memorable passwords.
Once you know what a network security key is, how and where to find it, you can make your internet activities more inaccessible. We have adequately delved into these aspects in this article, so kindly read up and make informed decisions.
