Tips for Securing Your IoT Devices on the Network

27 February 2026

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the most exciting revolutions in modern technology. From smart thermostats and voice assistants to connected fridges and doorbell cameras, these devices are changing how we live, work, and play. But with great connectivity comes great responsibility. If you don’t take steps to secure your IoT devices, you're pretty much inviting hackers over for dinner—and guess what? They're not polite guests.

Let’s dig into how to lock down your smart devices and keep your network locked up tighter than a drum.

What Makes IoT Devices Vulnerable?

Before we talk about solutions, let's figure out what we're up against. IoT devices are mini-computers with internet access, but unlike your smartphone or laptop, they usually lack robust security features.

Why? A few reasons:

- Minimal processing power – That tiny fitness tracker doesn’t have room for advanced security controls.
- Default credentials – Many devices come with default usernames/passwords like “admin/admin” (yikes!).
- Infrequent updates – Manufacturers sometimes forget (or ignore) firmware patches.
- Always connected – IoT devices are like open windows in your digital home.

Now that we know the risks, let’s talk about closing those windows promptly.

1. Change Default Usernames and Passwords Immediately

Here’s the thing: if a hacker can Google your device’s default login credentials, so can anyone else. The first rule of IoT security is never leave the default settings untouched.

What to do:

- Create strong, unique passwords using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid using the same password across multiple devices.
- Use a reliable password manager if memorizing gets tough.

Remember, “admin123” is not clever—it’s an open invitation to get hacked.

2. Update Device Firmware Regularly

Think of firmware updates like oil changes for your car. Without them, your device might still run—but it’s at risk of breaking down or worse, getting hijacked.

Why updates matter:

New software patches often close off newly discovered vulnerabilities. If you delay or ignore these updates, you’re letting known issues hang around longer than they should.

Tips:

- Set your device to auto-update if available.
- If not, schedule a reminder to check manually every few weeks.
- Visit the manufacturer’s website occasionally for the latest firmware news.

3. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network Like a Fort

Let’s be blunt—your Wi-Fi is the front door to your digital life. If it's weak, breaking in is a breeze for bad actors.

Quick wins:

- Change the default SSID (your network name). Using “Netgear123” is like shouting, “I didn’t change anything!”
- Use a strong WPA3 (or at least WPA2) password.
- Disable WPS—this convenience feature can be a security hole.
- Hide your network SSID if you want to make it less visible.

A locked-down Wi-Fi equals smarter security for all connected devices.

4. Segment Your Network with VLANs or Guest Networks

Most routers allow you to create multiple networks. Why not use that to your advantage?

Think of it like this: You don’t store your valuables on the porch, right? So don’t put critical systems like work laptops and smart home devices on the same network.

How to segment:

- Create a guest network just for your IoT devices.
- Keep your main devices (personal phones, PCs) on a separate network.
- If you’re feeling fancy, use VLANs for even deeper segregation.

Even if one network gets compromised, the threat is contained.

5. Disable Unneeded Features

IoT devices often come with extra bells and whistles—remote access, UPnP, Bluetooth, voice control, etc. But the more features enabled, the larger your attack surface.

Best practices:

- Turn off remote access if you don’t need it.
- Disable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP)—it's more trouble than it's worth.
- Review privacy settings regularly to see what data is being collected.

If you’re not using it, lose it. Simple as that.

6. Use a Firewall and Intrusion Detection Tools

Think firewalls are just for corporate networks? Think again. A decent firewall can monitor traffic to and from your IoT devices and sound the alarm when something weird happens.

Your options:

- Use your router’s built-in firewall (many have this).
- Install software-based firewalls on your PCs and laptops.
- Consider third-party network monitoring tools like Fing or Firewalla.

It’s like having a digital guard dog that never sleeps.

7. Monitor Connected Devices and Traffic

You can’t protect what you don’t know exists. Seriously, do you even know how many devices are on your network right now? If not, it’s time to find out.

What to do:

- Log into your router and review the list of connected devices.
- Rename devices so they’re easy to identify (e.g., “SmartFridge” beats “Device192.168.0.7”).
- Remove or block any unknown or suspicious devices.

This detective work can reveal intruders before they cause harm.

8. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Where Possible

Even if someone gets ahold of your password, 2FA can stop them dead in their tracks.

How it helps:

2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification—typically a code sent to your phone or generated by an app.

What to secure:

- Your IoT device accounts (if the vendor offers it).
- Your router admin panel (very important!).
- Any linked cloud services or control panels.

If 2FA is an option—use it. It’s like adding a deadbolt to your front door.

9. Buy From Reputable Manufacturers

Here’s a tough pill to swallow: cheap, no-name IoT devices often don’t care about your security. Saving a few bucks upfront could cost you a lot more later.

Look for:

- Vendors with transparent security and privacy policies.
- Devices that receive regular firmware updates.
- Community reviews and security audits.

Sometimes you truly get what you pay for. Don’t compromise here.

10. Be Cautious With Voice Assistants

Smart speakers like Alexa and Google Assistant add convenience—but they’re also always listening. That can be a privacy headache if not managed correctly.

Tips:

- Mute the mic when not in use.
- Review voice logs in your account settings.
- Enable voice-only access for trusted users.

Think of them as nosy roommates—friendly, but you wouldn’t want them hearing everything.

11. Disable Location Services When Not Needed

Many IoT devices have GPS or location-based services turned on by default. Do you really want your smart vacuum reporting where you are 24/7?

Best practices:

- Go through settings and disable location sharing.
- Review app permissions on your smartphone, too.
- Use location spoofing only if you’re comfortable with it (and it’s legal where you live).

Location data is a goldmine for cybercriminals. Don’t hand it over without a fight.

12. Educate Everyone in Your Household

You could have the most secure setup in town, but if your roommate or kids don’t follow the rules, all bets are off.

Share the knowledge:

- Teach basic password hygiene.
- Show how to identify suspicious notifications or emails.
- Set device usage policies around updates and installs.

Security is a team sport—get everyone playing on the same side.

Final Thoughts

Securing your IoT devices might not sound like the most glamorous job, but it’s absolutely worth your time. These gadgets are like digital doors and windows into your life. You wouldn't leave your front door wide open, right?

With the tips we've covered, you’re building a smarter, safer digital home—one device at a time. Take the time to lock things down now instead of dealing with a messy breach later.

Stay safe, stay smart, and don’t forget to update that smart coffee maker (yes, that's a thing now).