Is it advisable to change your Wi-Fi network name from time to time? This is what you should know
When connecting to a Wi-Fi network, there are two main aspects: the network name and the password. You need to know the name to connect to the right network. Also, you need to know the password. In order to improve security, we always say that it is a good idea to change your password from time to time. But is it advisable to change the Wi-Fi network name from time to time? Does it improve security at all? Let's talk to you about it.
When you buy a router, or when it is given to you by the operator you rent, it will come with the manufacturer’s name. Ideally, you should change it to another name. For example, this name might contain the type and model of the device, as well as the name of the operator you have assigned. But is it a good idea to change it more than once?
- Prevent unwanted access
There is a reason why it is useful to change your name from time to time and that is to make it more difficult for unwanted people to gain access to your network and try to do so. For example, if you have a certain name and your neighbor knows what it is, they may constantly try to use passwords they think you are using.
In addition, it is also possible that, at some point, you have connected a device that no longer interests you, or given the name of your WiFi network to someone, etc. By changing the name or SSID from time to time, you will make it more difficult for unwanted access. As we will explain, this does not mean that your router is more protected, but it does mean that you can, in part, restrict certain accesses.
After all, when you change the network name, the devices will have to connect to the network again and enter the password. If they manage to figure out the password for your network for some reason, when you change the name they will be disconnected from it. They may have a harder time figuring out your Wi-Fi network and start trying to connect.
- Does not improve real security
However, besides making unwanted access more difficult, it doesn’t really improve security. Anyone with the necessary knowledge will be able to easily figure out your Wi-Fi network name, even if you hide it. So changing the name won’t have a very strong impact on security, but it does help a little.
Aside from the network name, which can be useful for identifying your network, it's always a good idea to use strong, complex passwords. We recommend using unique passwords that contain uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and other symbols. Avoid using words or numbers that can be associated with you and easily guessed.
Likewise, using proper encryption will be essential to protect yourself. Today, the most advanced is WPA3 . If that fails, use WPA2. Otherwise, if you use an old encryption, they will be able to easily crack your password and you will be exposed, with the risks that this poses to your devices.
In short, we can really say that it is not very useful to change the name of a Wi-Fi network, except for some specific cases. If you are concerned about security, the main thing is to use a good password, change it from time to time and have sufficient encryption. In addition, creating a guest network might be a good idea as well.