Home Network Security Guide

CSNP Family Safety Resource | www.csnp.org

Guide

Home Network Security Guide

Turn your home network into a digital fortress! This visual guide helps you secure every connected device in your home - from smart TVs to kids' tablets. Protect your family's privacy and data with easy-to-follow steps that anyone can implement!

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Your Home Network Security Map

Router

Router Central

Critical Priority
WiFi Router Modem

Family Devices

High Priority
Phones Tablets Laptops
🏠

Smart Home

Medium Priority
Smart TV Alexa/Google Cameras Thermostats

Kids Corner

High Priority
Gaming Consoles Kids Tablets Smart Toys

Security Tasks by Zone

Router Central

3 Essential Tasks

Change default admin password

easy Required

Update firmware regularly

medium Required

Disable WPS

easy

Use WPA3 encryption

easy Required

Change network name (SSID)

easy

Family Devices

3 Essential Tasks

Enable automatic updates

easy Required

Install antivirus software

easy Required

Use device passwords/biometrics

easy Required

Regular backups

medium

App permission review

medium
🏠

Smart Home

3 Essential Tasks

Change default passwords

easy Required

Create IoT network segment

hard

Disable unnecessary features

medium

Review privacy settings

easy Required

Regular firmware updates

medium Required

Kids Corner

4 Essential Tasks

Enable parental controls

easy Required

Set up family safety accounts

medium Required

Review friend lists

easy Required

Disable voice chat with strangers

easy Required

Time limits and schedules

easy

Quick Security Wins (30 Minutes Total)

Change WiFi password
2 min High Impact
Enable router firewall
1 min High Impact
Create guest network
5 min Medium Impact
🚫
Turn off WPS
1 min High Impact
Update router firmware
10 min Critical Impact
List all devices
15 min Medium Impact

Complete all 6 tasks = 80% more secure!

Smart Network Segmentation

🏠

Main Network

Trusted family devices

Security Level

Highest

Devices

Family computers Personal phones Work laptops

Password Strategy

Strong & Complex

Guest Network

Visitors and friends

Security Level

Isolated

Devices

Guest phones Visitor laptops

Password Strategy

Simple but changed regularly

🔌

IoT Network

Smart home devices

Security Level

Segregated

Devices

Smart bulbs Thermostats Cameras

Password Strategy

Strong & unique

Kids Network

Children's devices

Security Level

Filtered & Monitored

Devices

Kids tablets Game consoles Smart toys

Password Strategy

Parent-controlled

Family Device Inventory

Know what's on your network - track every device!

Device Category Count Examples Secured?
Work & School Laptops, Tablets, Phones
Entertainment Smart TVs, Gaming consoles, Streaming devices
Smart Home Thermostats, Cameras, Doorbells, Lights
Kids Devices Tablets, Smart toys, Game systems
Guests & Others Visitor phones, IoT devices

Goal: Account for 100% of devices on your network!

Router Security Command Center

Admin Password

Changed from default?

Firmware Version

Last updated?

Encryption

Using WPA3?

Critical Router Settings Checklist:

Monthly Security Check

30-Minute Monthly Routine:

Warning Signs

Signs Your Network May Be Compromised:

  • Slow internet speeds suddenly
  • Unknown devices on network
  • Changed settings you didn't make
  • Unusual data usage
  • Pop-ups or redirects

Your Family Security Score

75%

Secure

Router Security
Device Protection
Network Segmentation
Kids Safety

Download Network Security Guide

Get a comprehensive guide to securing your home network and protecting your family online.

Network Security Guide (PDF) Back to Family Resources

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