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If you don't take the proper router protection measures, hackers will be able to break into your wireless network, access your information, and slow down your connection speed. If you use the following four router protection tips, you'll make it much more difficult for hackers to take advantage of your network.

Enable WPA2 encryption

Without a WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) encryption feature protecting your network, your router is left wide open to attacks from hackers. Older routers might have WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) security instead of WPA2 security. WEP security can quickly be broken into by an experienced hacker, so it's worth the effort to upgrade to WPA2. 

You can find out how to add WPA2 wireless encryption to your network by referring to the manufacturer's manual that came with your router. 

Keep your firewall turned on

Your router probably comes with a built-in firewall that can provide some security. When the firewall is enabled, the network is less easy for hackers to find and target. Some firewalls that come built-in on routers even offer a "stealth mode" that deters hackers by reducing the visibility of a network. 

After you've enabled your firewall, it's a good idea to test the firewall using tests such as a common ports test or a messenger spam test. Testing the firewall will help to ensure that it's properly configured. 

Disable "admin via wireless"

Routers typically have an "admin via wireless" feature that can compromise the security of the network. When this feature is disabled, only a person who is physically connected to the router by an Ethernet cable will be able to change admin settings. 

Disabling the "admin via wireless" feature prevents a hacker from accessing your router once they've cracked your network's Wi-Fi encryption. 

Get a router level encrypted personal VPN service

A VPN (virtual private networks) service can be affordably purchased for a monthly fee. Networks with a personal VPN have one of the best forms of security against hackers. Hackers trying to break into a network that has a personal VPN face many challenges. When a personal VPN is used, the location of the network's proxy IP address is anonymized. 

A personal VPN service is most effective when it can be supported at the router level. While some routers may not be capable of supporting a VPN service, those that can will be able to benefit from encryption on any traffic that enters or leaves the network. 

For more information about setting up and securing your wireless network, contact a company like Virginia Broadband, LLC.