You've got dinner in the oven, looking for extra cups, and your cousin shouts (again), “What's the Wi-Fi password?” You're juggling hundreds of things at once, and the last thing you want to do is crack your password.
Here's the good news: You can put a printout on the fridge, and everyone can scan it with their phone to call. But first, I'll show you how to create a separate network so you don't have to worry about little Billy getting into your personal items On your devices And computers.
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Be my guest
When guests connect to your main Wi-Fi network, they'll likely be able to access devices Such as smart TVsprinters, and even your laptop or phone if file sharing is enabled. Worse still, if their devices are compromised, your entire network could be at risk. A guest network keeps everyone happy while keeping your private life private.
Most modern routers allow you to set up a guest network without having to be a technical expert. Warning: This will take a few minutes, but it's totally doable.
Related to: Is your internet slow? Let's fix that.
Step 1: Log in to your router's admin console. You will need your IP address. You can usually find this on a sticker at the bottom or side of your router. Seeing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 is common.
If you don't see your…
- On Windows: Open Start menusearch for “Command Prompt,” and then type “Command Prompt” while it is open ipconfig And press He enters. Look for the line that says “Default Gateway”. This is the IP address of your router.
- On Mac: Go to System settings > network. Choose your Wi-Fi network > advanced. Your router's IP address is below Router.
Step 2: Open your browser, type http:// And paste in your IP address. He hits He enters To open the login page. For credentials, try username Responsible And the word password for password. If the default settings are different, they are likely printed on your router. You can also check This is a site that lists default passwords For almost every router in use.
Step 3: Look for a setting called Guest network or Wi-Fi service for guests. Give it a different name (aka SSID) from your main network, as well as a strong, unique password.
Tech Tip: Save your memories before it's too late
If you have intruders in your family… When family members and friends connect to your guest Wi-Fi network, you can prevent them from accessing your files or devices on your primary network. Turn off Local access session.
Sorry, but custom intrusions won't stop at one locked door. Here's a sign someone is poking around.
While you're there, a quick security check
Before you finish, follow these additional steps to secure things:
Biometric data: Is it safe to hand it over to any company that requests it?
- Change your administrator password: If your router is still using the default login, update it.
- Update your firmware as well: Check for software updates to keep your router safe from vulnerabilities.
Your network is a bigger target than you realize.
Now for the fun part
Create a QR code that automatically connects guests to your new guest network – without any hassle or drama. With the free website QIFI.orgAll you need is three pieces of information:
- Service Set ID: This is the name of your Wi-Fi network. You can find it on the back of your modem, in your Admin console, or in your network application.
- Encryption type: Choose WPA/WPA2/WPA3. You can find this in your The Wi-Fi section of the phone Under network details.
- key: This is your router's password. It's located on the back of your router if you've never changed it. (Please tell me you changed it!)
He hits is born And your QR code is ready. Print out some copies to hang around your house, or do what I did: Order this custom sign It looks elegant. Now, when someone asks for your Wi-Fi password, you can just point.
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