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Önetwork security key, also known as WiFi password, is the password you use to connect your devices to a wireless network. Most routers have a default network security key that you can change on the device's settings page.
Keeping your network security key safe is vital as it helps protect your network from hackers. However, if you lost your network key, don't worry. we got you covered!
In this article, we will show you how to find the network security key on your router and make it even more secure to protect your devices.
What is a network security key?
A network security key is a unique code or string of characters that connects your computer, smartphone, or other device to a wireless network. This code helps establish a secure connection between your device and the WiFi router.
The main purpose of a network security key is to protect the network from unauthorized access. Other names for the network security key are WEP key, WPA key, and wireless passphrase.
Different types of network security keys
Among the different types of network security keys, the two most commonly used security protocols are as follows:
- Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)
- WLAN Protected Access (WPA)
WPA has two other subsequent versions:
- WLAN Protected Access 2 (WPA2)
- WiFi 3 (WPA3) protected access
Each type of network security key offers unique security features, but their core functionality is essentially the same, which is user authorization for wireless networks.
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is the most basic security protocol invented in the early days of networking. While it's not the best option, older devices may still support it.
A WEP key contains characters including numbers (0-9) and letters (A-F). An example WEP key might be 1A568D7F9. As you can see, due to its static encryption key, we can easily decrypt a WEP key with simple decryption software, making it vulnerable to hackers. Therefore, we advise against using the WEP key and compromising your security.
WLAN Protected Access (WPA)
WPA (WiFi Protected Access) was developed to improve upon and overcome the weaknesses of WEP. It uses a temporary key known as TKIP to establish a connection. This protocol also offers a higher level of security by using a new 128-bit key to encrypt each packet of data, making it harder for hackers to intercept it.
Although WPA offers advanced features than WEP, it still has vulnerabilities and can be hacked or compromised by cyberattacks.
WLAN Protected Access 2 (WPA2)
As we've already discussed, WPA2 is the next version of WPA and features advanced AES encryption, making it an excellent choice for personal and business use. This security standard has been around since 2006, and virtually every device you use today supports it.
WiFi 3 (WPA3) protected access
WPA3 offers the latest and most secure network encryption. There are two differences between WPA3 and WPA2: a more advanced encryption method (192-bit encryption strength) and a more secure initial key exchange mechanism.
In addition to security, WPA3 also makes it easier to connect wireless devices without a screen and even allows you to protect your connection even if your wireless network password is weak. All devices after 2020 support WPA3.
Monitoring:Regardless of what security protocol you use or how strong your passwords are, they are just the foundation of your online security. So get PureVPN now to protect your privacy online as it uses AES 256-bit data encryption which is much more secure than WPA3 192-bit encryption.
Why is network security necessary?
Here are some of the reasons network security is necessary for you:
- By implementing network security measures like using network security keys, VPN, etc., you can ensure the overall security of your network.
- It keeps your network and data operational, reliable, and secure.
- Protects against viruses, malware, and other malicious software that infect the network and disrupt operations.
- Increases privacy and confidentiality by encrypting the transmission of sensitive data.
- It also ensures that confidential information is only accessible to authorized persons.
Monitoring:using aVPNAdding a layer of network security to protect your sensitive data and increase privacy is one of the best practices.
Step-by-step guide to find network security key on router
A network security switch is usually visible on the outside of a router. Therefore, to find the network security key, check the back or bottom of the router for a sticker that has the key on it, or check the manufacturer's or ISP's manual or packaging.
On the router, search for terms such as:
- chave WEP
- Chave WPA
- password
- security key
- WiFi password
The default WiFi password can put your network and devices at risk if you don't change it. We therefore recommend changing the security key to a strong password that you can remember.
How to change your network security key (WLAN password)
Here are the steps you can follow to change your network security key (WiFi password);
- To start you need to find yoursIP-Address of Routersthat you can see insideManualthat comes with the device.
- Alternatively, if you are already connected to the network, find theIP address on your computer. ForWindows operating systems, right-click "Begin' and select 'Run"now type"cmd', then type the command 'ipconfig' and press Enter.on a mac, strainOptionstasteeright clickÖWLAN-Symbolin the upper-right corner of the screen to find the router's IP address.
- After you dieIP Address, open a web browser andtype itin the address barAccess the router settings page.
- Now log in using the default credentials from the manual or from your ISP.
- After logging in, look for a section called "wireless,,„Wireless settings," or "Wireless security.“
- ChooseWPA2because it offers the best encryption.
- Now,Change your passwordor network security key accordingly.
- Finally,Save on computerthe changes andrebootyour router.
You can now use your updated password to reconnect to your WiFi connection.
Essential Network Security Mismatch Error: What It Is and How to Fix It
A basic network security error occurs when you try to connect your device to a wireless network but accidentally enter the wrong security key (password).
We all make mistakes when entering passwords. However, if you are sure that you entered the correct password and you still get the critical network security error, then follow the steps below to fix this problem immediately.
- Check password again: The first thing to do is to verify the password. We often make the password case-sensitive, so make sure you use the correct case. Check the "caps lock" key.
- Reboot your router and device:If the problem persists, try restarting it by turning it off and on again to see if that fixes the problem.
- Update the router firmware:Make sure your router's firmware is up to date. If not, update the firmware to fix device compatibility issues.
Monitoring:If none of the above solutions work, there may be an issue with your router or device. Please contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
Take your network security to a new level with PureVPN
Just using a network security key is not enough to protect your router. A VPN can provide an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic to protect your privacy online so hackers or data thieves can't track you.
You can configure PureVPN on your router to encrypt all connected devices including phones, laptops and smart TVs. This way you can protect all devices in your home or office with a single PureVPN account.
A strong WiFi password is critical to your security, but encrypting your network traffic through a VPN takes your security to another level. And with 256-bit AES encryption, PureVPN prevents unauthorized access to your online activity, making your network less attractive to hackers and data thieves.
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FAQ
Is my network security key the same as my WiFi password?
Yes, Network Security Key is another name for your WiFi password. Using a strong password with VPN is recommended to ensure the security of your wireless network.
Where is the network security switch on the router?
You can usually find the network security key on a sticker on the bottom or back of the router, or in the router manual. You can also find it in the router settings by logging into the web interface.
How do I configure a network security key?
The steps to configure a network security key vary by router model. However, you can usually do this by accessing the router's web interface and navigating to the WiFi settings page. You can change the network security key and select a security protocol (e.g. WPA2).