The internet is a big part of the family dynamic nowadays, kids are online for homework, online gaming, streaming and talking with friends. As immersive as the internet can be, it can also be dangerous, and pose serious threats, which is why it is important to child-proof your WiFi. When it comes to child-proofing your WiFi, it is not about restrictions or spying on them to keep them from being active internet users; but instead about crafting a safer online space for them.
Why You Should Child-Proof Your Wi-Fi
The home wi-fi network is the gateway to everything children search online, and by child-proofing the wi-fi, it gets rid of any chances your child will see anything inappropriate, reduce the risk of cyberbullying or anything that comes with online safety threats.
11 Tips to Keep Your Broadband Safe For Kids
By following a few simple steps like updating your broadband routers default settings, avoiding open networks, using parental controls and much more, you can keep your kids safe online:
1. Update Default Settings
Default settings on a modem can be dangerous, as they are the first thing any hacker will attempt to use to access a home WiFi network. So, the first thing you want to do is change them to something that is difficult to guess.
Tips For Updating Default Settings
When updating your generic modem settings, you should first set your WiFi network name to something neutral. It should be a name that does not include your last name, or the word ‘router.’ Furthermore, it shouldn’t be something that contains identifying information like your address.
2. Enable WPA3 or WPA2 Security
To keep other people from accessing your network, make sure your router is set to WPA3 or WPA2 encryption.
3. Avoid Open Networks
An open network is an easy target for hackers, so never leave your home WiFi open for access to anyone.
4. Use Router Based Parental Control
If your router has built in parental controls, you can use those to set screen time, filter content and block certain websites.
5. Create Age-Appropriate Profiles
As your child gets older, you can relax the rules and monitoring a little to give them more freedom.
6. Separate Guest WiFi
You can keep your work devices and other important devices separate from the guests by using a guest WiFi access.
7. Add Extra Protection for Kids’ Devices
Children’s devices can be placed on a different network that is more restricted and better filtered.
8. Schedule Internet Access
Some routers have the option of pausing Internet access, which can be used to set rules for sleep time or homework.
9. Discouragement of Unsafe Digital Behaviour
The most effective use of WiFi controls is when it is accompanied with open dialogues regarding internet responsibility and screen time moderation.
10. Ensure Automatic Updates
Make sure router firmware, devices and apps are updated routinely to keep safety exceptions up to date, as updates routinely include important safety enhancements.
11. Check Any Security Alerts
Regularly checking your router’s dashboard is a best practice as it can help track unknown activity.
