Security tips

Secure the basics before they become emergencies.

Strong Wi-Fi passwords, password managers, two-factor authentication, and backups are boring until they save the day.

Wireless router

Wireless password

Change the default Wi-Fi password. A long password is best, but almost anything is better than a factory default. If you reset the router, change the password again.

Password managers

A password manager helps you use unique passwords without memorizing every one. That is much safer than reusing the same password across accounts.

Two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication protects logins even if your password is guessed or stolen. Turn it on for email, banking, cloud storage, and social accounts.

Save recovery codes somewhere safe in case your phone is lost or replaced.

Back up your system

Online backups can protect your files when a computer fails, is stolen, or gets infected. External drives help too, but only if they are connected and current.

  • CrashPlan
  • Backblaze
  • Carbonite