Bill used to have a trial version of Network Magic, but since learned that it's been discontinued. He was wondering if there was a similar program he could get that would do the same thing. Leo says that Network Magic was needed when networking was newer, and setting up these networks was much more complex. The truth is, programs like these aren't really needed anymore, because routers are easier to set up now. Leo recommends just following the instructions that come with the router, and leaving it at that.
There are some basic security settings he should change or enable, however:
- Turn on WPA encryption, or WPA2 if the router supports it.
This will prevent people from gaining access to his network.
- Turn off WPS.
This is the "push button" encryption feature that some routers provide, and it's not very secure.
- Turn off UPnP.
This is universal plug'n'play, which has some serious security vulnerabilities that had been uncovered.
- Change the name of the router to something other than the default.
This should be something he knows, that doesn't encourage people to want to join it.
- Choose a memorable administrative password.
It doesn't have to be difficult, but something other than the default.