Is your home router really secure? An expert explains how to know

Ville Partanen, Head of Service Development at DNA, explains how consumers can recognize a secure router and when it is time to replace the device to avoid unknowingly letting hackers into their home.

“Security risks related to routers are usually not visible on the surface, which is why they often go unnoticed. From a security perspective, the most important factor is whether the device still receives regular updates and whether those updates are installed properly. If a router is several years old, updates may no longer be available at all,” Partanen says.

Signs that your router is not secure

According to Partanen, you should take a critical look at your router if any of the following apply:

• the router’s software has not been updated for a long time
• updating the device requires manual configuration
• the manufacturer’s support for the device has ended
• the router requires frequent restarts
• the router is more than four years old

“An unstable internet connection is annoying, but the real risk lies in security. In the worst case, a sufficiently old and unprotected router can be taken over and recruited for criminal or malicious online activity without the user being aware of it,” Partanen warns.

If your home internet connection constantly stalls and the router needs to be restarted repeatedly, this is a clear sign that it should be replaced.

“As a rule of thumb, I would say that for a basic user, a router that is four years old is already aging. If the device has been of higher quality and slightly more expensive, its lifespan may be somewhat longer. On the other hand, an inexpensive model that is being phased out of the market may reach the end of its life more quickly. Advanced users may replace their router as often as every two years,” Partanen explains.

What should you consider when buying a secure router?

According to Partanen, when buying a new router, several factors beyond price should be taken into account.

“The router should be at least Wi‑Fi 6 compatible and one that receives security updates automatically.”

The cheapest devices often compromise on software quality, performance, and update support.

“A cheap router can become expensive if it does not adequately protect the devices in your home. Many households have network‑connected devices worth hundreds or even thousands of euros. Their security should not be put at risk, nor should usability be compromised by saving in the wrong place. The home router is the lock for the entire home network, which is why it is worth investing in its quality,” Partanen reminds.

Partanen recommends purchasing a router directly from your operator.

“When the router is supplied by the operator, the customer does not need to monitor manufacturers’ support pages or worry about updates. The operator is responsible for ensuring that the device remains secure.”

Placement and home size also affect security

A single router typically covers an apartment of around 70 square meters when placed in an open and sensible location. For example, in a two‑room apartment in an apartment building, the device should be placed on top of a sideboard or cabinet in the area between rooms.

“A metal cabinet, such as an apartment’s electrical cabinet, is the worst possible place. It weakens the Wi‑Fi signal and overheats the device. In homes larger than 70 square meters or in detached houses, the network should be expanded with a mesh system so that both connectivity and security function throughout the home.”

“Security is not a single feature, but a whole that is created through up‑to‑date devices, regular updates, and sensible use,” Partanen concludes.

Further information for media: 

Ville Partanen, Head of Service Development, DNA, tel. +358 (0) 44 044 4056, ville.partanen@dna.fi

DNA Communications, tel. +358 (0)44 044 8000, communications@dna.fi