Help setting up Wi-Fi router (midwest.social)

submitted 3 months ago by clark@midwest.social to c/privacy@lemmy.ml

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At risk of sounding stupid, I need some pointers on how to set up a Wi-Fi router and make it as private and secure as possible.

To sound even more stupid, I don't really know what PiHole is, or why some people route their traffic through a VPN. I suppose my main questions are these:

What Wi-Fi router should I get?
How do I configurate it as somebody who is somewhat privacy-conscious but not very tech-savvy?

I don't really know how regular Wi-Fi routers work, what the common worries are, how/if data is at risk of being leaked, and so on. So, any pointers would be appreciated! Feel free to direct me to any privacy guides, as well. Cheers!

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[-] some_guy@lemmy.sdf.org 1 points 3 months ago

Turn off broadcast of the SSID (meaning that your network isn't seen when someone looks at available networks).

PiHole is probably more advanced than you're ready to explore given your present level of knowledge, but I'd encourage you to dive in if you consider the concept interesting. You might develop a new hobby. If you have a tech-interested friend, you might ask them to set one up on your behalf.

[-] PowerCrazy@lemmy.ml 2 points 3 months ago

Turn off broadcast of the SSID

Don't do this. It provides zero security, and just reduces usability. Now you should call your SSID something non-identifiable. So instead of "$YourName Wifi" call it "pleasure chest" or something. Additionally do not set a ridiculous 64 character + special characters password, because again you are providing next to zero additional security, while hugely reducing usability.

Use a simple password scheme of 3-5 unrelated common words like from here: https://www.correcthorsebatterystaple.net/index.html for your wifi password.

[-] MangoPenguin@lemmy.blahaj.zone 2 points 3 months ago

Turning off broadcast doesn't do that much IMO, any of the Wifi scanning tools will show those networks anyways.

this post was submitted on 08 Sep 2024

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