They’re using these routers for denial-of-service (DoS) attacks and spamming inboxes. Meanwhile, a man’s been cyberstalked by a former roommate — nightmare stuff. Plus, Microsoft got hacked, and OpenAI is launching a search engine.
Set up your Wi-Fi for easy sharing with guests
© Darya Petrenko | Dreamstime.com
You’ve got a turkey in the oven, presents need to be wrapped, and your cousin’s kid screams (again), “What’s the Wi-Fi password?” You’re juggling a hundred things at once, and the last thing you want to do is to spell out your password.
Here’s the good news: You can slap a printout on the fridge, and everyone can scan it with their phones to connect. But first, I’ll show you how to create a separate network so you don’t need to worry about little Billy getting into your personal stuff on your devices and computers.
Be my guest
Most modern routers let you set up a guest network without having to be a tech guru. Warning: This will take you a few minutes, but it’s totally doable, even if you’ve had a few beers.
Step 1: Log into your router’s admin console. You’ll need your IP address. You can usually find this on a sticker on the bottom or side of your router. Seeing 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 is common.
If you don’t see yours …
- On Windows: Open the Start menu, search for “Command Prompt” and, with your Command Prompt open, type in ipconfig and press Enter. Look for the line that says “Default Gateway.” This is your router’s IP address.
- On Mac: Go to System Settings > Network. Select your Wi-Fi network > Advanced. Your router’s IP address is under Router.
Step 2: Open your browser, type http:// and paste in your IP address. Hit Enter to open a login page. For the credentials, try the username admin and the word password for the password. If the defaults are different, they’re likely printed on your router — or check this site that lists default passwords for almost every router in use.
Step 3: Look for a setting called Guest Network or Guest Wi-Fi. Give it a different name (aka SSID) than your main network, along with a strong, unique password.
🕵️ If you have snoops in the family … When family and friends connect to your Wi-Fi guest network, you can block them from accessing your files or devices on your primary network. Turn off the local access setting. I bet you feel like James Bond right about now.
Now for the fun part
Create a QR code that automatically connects guests to your new guest network — no hassle, no drama. With the free site QIFI.org, all you need is three pieces of info:
Protect all your devices with the best antivirus software
Photo 230930944 © Milkos | Dreamstime.com
When it comes to antivirus software, there’s no better choice than our sponsor, TotalAV. For one, it’s available for your phone and computer, so all your devices are protected.
This security suite protects all your devices from the scariest online threats, such as ransomware, spyware, adware and (of course) malware. Its WebShield browser extension provides advanced protection against malicious websites and even blocks bad guys from stealing your data.
Don't buy these 10 obsolete products
© Roman Tiraspolsky | Dreamstime.com
Have any old gadgets around? Your dusty phones, boomboxes and gaming consoles can be worth a fortune. Here’s a list of items to fatten your wallet.
“New” is a relative term when it comes to tech. One product can remain on the shelves for years while another is replaced annually. The impact this has on your buying decisions can vary. Purchasing last year’s toaster oven may mean missing out on the new air fryer, but it’s not the same as getting an older smart speaker.
This guy will get you to sleep, seriously
Can’t seem to get to bed? Benjamin Boster reads dry Wikipedia articles to help people catch some Z’s on his ‘I Can’t Sleep’ podcast. Bad sleepers say he’s changed their lives. Plus, woman duped by Keanu Reeves deepfake, U.S. military used fake Cisco routers, and new Apple iPads.
Spies want in on your router
Is yours at risk? Hackers’ new side hustle is charging Chinese and Russian spies and scammers for access to old home routers so they can launch denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. Plus, Google blocks romance writer, worst airlines for luggage, and Microsoft gets hacked.