Best practices for your Linksys LN1100 and LN1200 WiFi network

This article will help you configure your Linksys LN1100 and LN1200 WiFi network more securely. Follow the tips below:

How to strengthen your WiFi security?
How to create a unique router passphrase?
Separate your guest network
How to enable automatic firmware updates?
How to schedule frequent device reboots?
Check the firewall capabilities
Location, location, location of your router
Replace end-of-support routers/gateways/modems
Disable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP®)

How to strengthen your WiFi security?

Boost your WiFi security by creating a non-descript WiFi name, a strong passphrase, and choosing the most secure security protocol to protect your personal WiFi network. To configure these settings, follow the steps below.

1. Log in to the Linksys Cognitive Mesh node through a web browser and click on Wi-Fi Settings.

2. On the Wireless tab, change your WiFi name, WiFi password, and Security mode.

Use a non-descript WiFi name: The more personalized your home network is built from the inside and out, the more security it will provide. Use an easy-to-recognize, non-descript WiFi name. A few examples of non-descript WiFi names are:

- "Virus Unsafe,"
- “H0me,” — use zero instead of "O" for "Home"
- “Linksys03945.”

Create a strong WiFi passphrase: To boost your password security, use a passphrase instead of a simple password. Use a combination of upper/lower cases, special characters, and also substitute a number for a letter. The passphrase needs to be hard to guess and something you will remember. Build a strong passphrase using simple details.

- For example, if you are into wines, create a passphrase like "Get me a b0ttle 0f 2oo1 Reserve wine." — use zero instead of "O" or vice versa.

Implement WPA3™ or WPA2™ on the Security mode: For the most secure WiFi connection, use WPA3 on your router, if all your devices support it. If you have older devices that don't support WPA3, you can configure your router to use WPA2/WPA3 mode. This allows newer devices to connect using the more secure WPA3 protocol, while older devices can still connect using WPA2.

3. Click the Apply button to save the changes.

How to create a unique router passphrase?

A unique router passphrase or password keeps your network settings secure and protected from unauthorized access. This needs to be different from your WiFi passphrase.

Keep your router password a secret! Just like your home door key, it controls who can access your router settings (admin access). Don't give it out to anyone unless you trust them.

1. Log in to the Linksys Cognitive Mesh node through a web browser and click on Connectivity.

2. On the Basic tab, click Edit next to Router/Admin Password and enter your router passphrase.

3. Click the Apply button to save the changes.

Separate your guest network

Keep your network segmented. Imagine dividing your home into different rooms but for your digital devices. Learn how to create a separate WiFi network for your guest devices to keep your trusted personal devices (such as laptops or tablets that you use for banking or credit card transactions, storage devices, etc.) secure.

How to enable automatic firmware updates?

Out-of-date security programs can leave your network susceptible to hackers. Automatic updates to your firmware best equip your network’s protection without needing to be manually updated every time. These updates will also shed any unwanted bugs interfering with your network’s security. Learn how to check if automatic firmware updates are turned ON.

How to schedule frequent device reboots?

Weekly device reboots shed unwanted bugs from interfering with your network’s security. Use this easy step to stay ahead of malware. Set up weekly restarts for your router, smartphones, and computers.

To reboot your Linksys LN1100, press the power switch located on the back of the device. Wait for a few minutes and then press it again to turn it ON. Once the status light is solid white, it means the node is back online.

Learn how to restart the nodes from the web interface and Linksys app.

Check the firewall capabilities

The Linksys LN1100 has firewall features to shield your internal systems from external network scanning. On the router’s web interface, go to Security. Under the Firewall tab, configure your desired settings.

Location, location, location of your router

Open space is key for optimal WiFi: Keep your router and node in the open for best WiFi coverage.
Minimize interference: Keep your router away from electronics that can disrupt the signal, like cordless phones, microwaves, and baby monitors. The devices can see slowdowns to a complete disruption when running on the 2.4 GHz band. Make sure the router placement is as far away as possible from interferences.
Central location is ideal: For even WiFi coverage, position your router in a central area of your home, away from walls and corners.
Large homes or obstacles: If your home is spacious or has thick concrete walls or ceilings, or if the internet entry point is not centrally located, consider a mesh network. A mesh system uses multiple units to create a blanket of WiFi throughout your entire home.
5G gateway: If you have 5G home internet, the best place to put your 5G gateway in your home is near a window, high up, or on a bookshelf. Avoid keeping the device in the basement. You can always connect a mesh system to the 5G gateway for better WiFi coverage.
Satellite internet gateway: If you have satellite home internet, the gateway may not be at a central point in your home. Avoid keeping the device in the basement. You can always connect a mesh system to the gateway for better WiFi coverage.

Replace end-of-support routers/gateways/modems

When modems, gateways, and routers reach the end of their support or life cycle, they should be replaced. Products at the end of their support or life cycle do not receive patches for security vulnerabilities and are vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Disable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP®)

The UPnP feature is turned ON by default on the Linksys LN1100. To turn it OFF, follow the steps below.

1. Log in to the Linksys Cognitive Mesh node through a web browser and click on Connectivity.

2. Click the Administration tab and uncheck the box next to the UPnP.

3. Click the Apply button to save the changes. The UPnP feature should now be disabled.