Ensuring the security of your Wi-Fi network is paramount. With cyber threats continually evolving, it’s critical to follow best practices and comply with established standards like Cyber Essentials to protect your business from potential vulnerabilities. This guide, designed for SMEs and organisations, provides practical advice, tips, and best practices for configuring, securing, and maintaining Wi-Fi networks—both in-office and for homeworkers.

Understanding WiFi Standards and Speeds
Before delving into security measures, it’s important to understand the different Wi-Fi standards:
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): Supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps and operates primarily on the 5 GHz band, offering reduced interference and higher speeds compared to older standards.
Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): Introduces improved efficiency, capacity, and performance in dense environments. It supports speeds up to 9.6 Gbps and is ideal for modern offices.
Wi-Fi 6E: Expands on Wi-Fi 6 by including the 6 GHz band, enabling lower latency and higher performance.
Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be): Higher speeds (up to 30 Gbps) and improved efficiency, making it a strong choice for future-proofing.
Wi-Fi 8 (anticipated): Focused on further enhancing speed, latency, and efficiency, Wi-Fi 8 is likely to set a new benchmark for wireless connectivity.
Future-Proofing Your Network
As technologies evolve, planning for future requirements is essential. Consider upgrading to Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 routers to leverage faster speeds, reduced latency, and improved security features. Investing in scalable solutions now will help your organisation adapt to emerging standards and growing demands.

Best Practices To Secure and Maintain Your WiFi Network Against Cyber Threats
1. Deploy Strong Encryption Protocols
Always use the latest and most secure encryption standards, such as WPA3. Older protocols like WEP and WPA are outdated and vulnerable to attacks.
2. Change Default Credentials
Routers and access points come with default usernames and passwords that are widely known. Change these to strong, unique credentials immediately upon setup.
3. Implement Network Segmentation
Segment your network to separate guest traffic from internal resources. This limits potential damage in case of a breach.
4. Regularly Update Firmware
Outdated firmware can leave your network vulnerable to exploits. Schedule regular updates for your routers and access points.
5. Use a Firewall
Ensure that your router has a firewall enabled to block unauthorised access. For added protection, use software firewalls on connected devices.
6. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Require MFA for access to network management interfaces. This adds an additional layer of security.
7. Control Network Access
Limit Wi-Fi access to authorised devices only. Use MAC address filtering to allow only recognised devices to connect.
8. Monitor Network Activity
Implement network monitoring tools to detect and respond to unusual activities. As a Cyber Essentials-certified organisation, OCM Communications can assist with robust monitoring solutions.
9. Educate Employees
Train staff on recognising phishing attempts and the importance of not sharing Wi-Fi credentials. Provide guidelines for creating secure passwords.
Securing Homeworker Wi-Fi Networks
Home networks pose unique challenges, especially when employees use personal routers. Here’s how to mitigate risks:
Use Corporate VPNs: Ensure all employees connect to the organisation’s network via a VPN for secure data transmission.
Provide Pre-Configured Routers: Supply staff with routers configured according to Cyber Essentials standards, including strong encryption and updated firmware.
Enable Device Firewalls: Require homeworkers to use device-level firewalls for an additional layer of security.
Secure Endpoints: Equip homeworkers’ devices with endpoint protection software to safeguard against malware and unauthorised access.

Guest Networks in the Office.
Guest networks are a critical component of a secure Wi-Fi strategy for office environments. They allow visitors to connect to the internet without compromising internal resources. Follow these best practices:
Create a Dedicated SSID: Set up a separate SSID for guest users to ensure they cannot access the main corporate network.
Limit Bandwidth: Allocate a specific bandwidth limit for the guest network to prevent it from impacting overall network performance.
Enable Client Isolation: Ensure devices connected to the guest network cannot communicate with each other or with devices on the internal network.
Monitor Activity: Keep logs of guest network activity to detect any suspicious behaviour.
Apply Usage Policies: Clearly define acceptable use policies for the guest network and communicate them to visitors.

Network Segregation for Homeworkers
For employees working from home, segregating personal and work networks can significantly enhance security:
Create Virtual LANs (VLANs): Use routers that support VLANs to separate traffic between work devices and personal devices.
Use Dual SSIDs: Configure separate SSIDs for work and personal use, ensuring each has its own unique password and security settings.
Secure IoT Devices: Keep Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as smart home gadgets, on a separate network to minimise potential attack vectors.
Educate Employees: Train homeworkers on the importance of network segregation and provide clear instructions for setting up separate networks.
Monitor Compliance: Use remote management tools to ensure that homeworkers adhere to network segregation practices.
Complying with Cyber Essentials Standards And Wifi
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme designed to protect organisations against the most common cyber threats. The following controls align with Cyber Essentials requirements:
1. Firewalls
Block unauthorised inbound and outbound traffic.
Document firewall rules and ensure they meet business needs.
2. Secure Configuration
Disable unnecessary features on routers and access points.
Remove default accounts and implement strong authentication mechanisms, WPA2 or WPA3.
3. Security Update Management
Apply firmware updates within 14 days of release to mitigate critical vulnerabilities.
4. Malware Protection
Ensure all connected devices have active and updated anti-malware software.
Secure Your Wi-Fi Network with OCM Communications
Securing your organisation’s Wi-Fi network is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and adherence to best practices. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide and aligning with Cyber Essentials standards, you can secure and maintain your WiFi network against cyber threats.
At OCM Communications, we specialise in tailored network solutions for SMEs and organisations. Whether you need assistance with Wi-Fi setup, monitoring, or security, our experts are here to help. As trusted TP-Link Solution Partners, we provide state-of-the-art wireless networks and comprehensive monitoring services.
Take the first step towards a secure network today. Contact OCM Communications to discuss your Wi-Fi and cybersecurity needs. Let’s build a safer digital environment together.
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