Ensure current or install a new router in Australia.
Ensure current or install a new router in Australia.
Hi there, I noticed someone is using my Wi-Fi without permission, and it keeps happening despite my efforts. I've tried changing the password several times, even switching to something hard to guess, which made my partner upset. I also disabled the WPS update feature but nothing seems to stop them. My router appears to have security issues (it's a TPLINK Archer VR1200 model). I'm not sure how to prevent unauthorized access. Should I replace the router or look for other solutions I don't know about? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Do you have a powerline adapter connected and powered on? Are they linked through Wi-Fi? Do they remain active even when Wi-Fi is turned off (test with a computer using a LAN cable)? Are you certain it's your neighbor and not an unfamiliar device in your home? Otherwise, you can set up rules to restrict bandwidth for the unknown device or completely block their access. You can also use MAC address filtering and allow only your own devices, though adding new devices will be inconvenient, especially when hosting guests.
I used Power over Ethernet for a few gadgets but couldn't get them working. They’re definitely connected to my Wi-Fi (as shown by the router), and since I’m the only one who knows the password, they’re not from my devices. Concerning MAC address filtering, I’ve heard it offers little real security—it doesn’t really prevent spoofing and can be easily bypassed. Do you think it helps?
PoE should be fine. You can fake MAC addresses, although not every device comes with support right away. It may work around blacklists but won’t bypass whitelists easily. Try using a blacklist if that doesn’t help; otherwise switch to whitelisting. Also, do you have another SSID active? Is this router from your ISP? Typically ISP models include a public hotspot anyone can connect to, which you can’t simply turn off without modifying the firmware or disabling hidden features. Speaking of it, update the admin page password as well.