A once-a-year home network checklist

In short: Nine small checks for once or twice a year, each with the official advice behind it and a link to plain steps.

By Kyle Button, 42 O'Clock Studios (part of Frequency 42). Updated November 9, 2026. Sources last checked November 9, 2026. How we write these articles. What's new.

How to use this

Go through it once or twice a year, and again after you add a camera or storage box, change internet company, or have your router replaced. Each step has the official advice behind it and a link to plain steps. Write down what you change in case you need to undo it.

The checklist

Run the free check. It shows which common doors answer from the internet. Run it now. Then read what it can and cannot see so you know how far to trust a clear result.
Update the router. CISA: "Check your router manufacturer's website to ensure you are running the latest firmware version." Also: "Firmware updates enhance product performance, fix flaws, and address security vulnerabilities."
Make sure it is still supported. The FBI says: "If the router is at end of life, replace the device with an updated model if possible." See how long a router should last.
Check the admin password is not the default. CISA: "Change default log-in passwords and usernames." The FTC: "Change the default administrative username, password, and network name to something unique." See the plain steps.
Turn off remote management. CISA: "Most routers offer the option to view and modify their settings over the internet. Turn this feature off to guard against unauthorized individuals accessing and changing your router's configuration."
Turn off UPnP unless you need it. CISA: "You should therefore disable UPnP unless you have a specific need for it." See what UPnP is.
Look at the list of connected devices. CISA suggests you "monitor for unauthorized devices joining or attempting to join your network." Most routers show a device list. If you see a name you do not recognize, see which device is it.
Sign out and restart. The FTC: "Once you've set up your router or are done changing settings, don't forget to log out as administrator." After a change, a restart is the usual way to be sure it took. The FBI also lists "reboot the router" among its steps.
Look inside your home as well. The website check only sees from the outside. The free Home Scan app looks at the devices on your own network.

If something looks wrong

Most items above are quick. If the check finds an open door, follow its guide. If you think your router has actually been tampered with, read what to do if your router is compromised. If you would like help, see our support page.

Run the free check

Sources

CISA, "Home Network Security" (archived page, released February 1, 2021): cisa.gov
Federal Trade Commission, "How To Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Network" (consumer advice, December 2022): consumer.ftc.gov
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center, "Cyber Criminal Proxy Services Exploiting End of Life Routers" (alert I-050725-PSA, May 7, 2025): ic3.gov

Quotes are copied from those pages. We read them directly on November 8, 2026. Agencies revise and archive pages, so check the originals for anything you plan to rely on.