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Home Security: Why You Should Put IoT Devices on a Guest Wi-Fi Network

  • Writer: Christian Cooper
    Christian Cooper
  • Jun 27, 2023
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 18


A man using his laptop


Most homes now have more than 10 internet-connected devices. Smart homes are becoming more common, and PCs and mobile gadgets make up over half of these devices. The Internet of Things is changing how we live today.


The Internet of Things, or IoT, connects many devices in our homes. From streaming sticks and smart refrigerators to baby monitors and voice assistants like Alexa, these smart devices all link to the internet.


Remote and hybrid work have become much more common in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic made this shift happen faster, moving many people away from traditional office jobs.


Working remotely has become the new standard for companies worldwide. However, this has resulted in heightened concern over the security of IoT devices. These devices are now sharing the same Wi-Fi network as sensitive business data and crucial devices.


As a result, it is more essential than ever to secure these IoT devices to prevent potential cyber threats.


Here are two important facts about IoT security:

  1. In the first half of 2021, IoT cyberattacks rose by 135% compared to the previous year.

  2. Over 25% of cyberattacks against businesses are estimated to involve IoT devices.


Hackers often use IoT devices to attack computers and smartphones.


“Are your smart devices putting your entire network at risk? Unfortunately, it’s true. Hackers often use these devices as a gateway into more sensitive information. Be on the alert and keep your devices secure.”


IoT security is important. Even if a criminal does not care about your smart fridge’s shopping list, they may still try to hack it to reach other devices on your network. Protect all your devices to stay safe.


Hackers can use sharing and permissions on your home network to access your work computer or mobile device. Protect your data and personal information by staying secure and careful.


Why are IoT devices less secure than computers and smartphones? Here are some reasons:

  1. They usually do not have antivirus or anti-malware features.

  2. People often forget to update their IoT devices.

  3. These devices have simple interfaces, which can make it hard to notice a security breach.

  4. People often do not change the default username and password on these devices.

  5. Sharing settings on these devices can make them easier to hack.


Use a Separate Wi-Fi Network to Secure Your IoT Devices


Most modern routers let you set up a separate Wi-Fi network for guests, called a guest network. Guests can use this network to get online without accessing your main devices.

Set up a separate network for your IoT devices to protect your sensitive information. This helps stop hackers from moving between devices on the same network. It is a simple way to keep your data safe.


Protect your sensitive information by separating IoT devices from personal devices. By doing so, hackers won’t be able to access everything in one breach. Even if one device is compromised, they won’t be able to identify other devices on a different network, such as your PC or smartphone. Stay one step ahead of cyber threats by implementing this simple but effective security measure.


Protect your sensitive information with this crucial security layer. Whether you work remotely or manage your finances on your computer, it’s a must-have. With online access to banking and personal data, all PCs and smartphones are at risk. Stay safe and secure with this essential safeguard.


Separate Your IoT Devices with These Simple Steps, or let us help you.

  1. Step 1: Log in to your router settings.

  2. Step 2: Find the section for setting up a guest network. Each router is different, so you may need to check an online guide.

  3. Step 3: Follow the prompts to set up the guest network and use a strong password.

  4. Step 4: Change the password for your main network so IoT devices do not reconnect to it automatically.

  5. Step 5: Connect all your IoT devices to the new guest network.

  6. Step 6: Reconnect your important devices, like computers and smartphones, to your main network using the new password.


How to secure your home network:

  1. Make sure new devices connect to the correct network.

  2. Improve your Wi-Fi security by avoiding obvious or descriptive network names.

  3. Do not use names like 'IoT network,' your personal details, or your router model.

  4. Choose network names that do not give hackers any clues.


Get expert help to improve your home security.


If you work remotely, your home network can be a target for hackers looking for sensitive data. Protect your personal and business information by booking a home internet security review with us. Contact us and get a free consultation!

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