Ditch WPA2: Why WPA3 and a New Router Are Your Wi-Fi's Best Friends

For years, WPA2 has been the stalwart guardian of our Wi-Fi networks.¹ But in an increasingly complex digital landscape, it's starting to show its cracks. If you're still relying on WPA2, it's time to seriously consider upgrading to WPA3 and, potentially, a new router. Here's why:

WPA2's Vulnerabilities: A Growing Concern

While WPA2 was a significant leap forward, it's not impervious to attacks.² The infamous KRACK attack, for example, exposed fundamental flaws in its handshake process, allowing attackers to intercept and decrypt data.³ Furthermore, WPA2's reliance on a pre-shared key (PSK) makes it vulnerable to brute-force and dictionary attacks.⁴ A weak password is all it takes for a determined hacker to gain access to your network.

WPA3: A Fortress for Your Wi-Fi

WPA3 addresses these vulnerabilities and introduces several crucial security enhancements:⁵

• Stronger Password Protection (SAE): WPA3 utilizes Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE), also known as the Dragonfly handshake.⁶ This significantly strengthens password security, making brute-force attacks far more difficult, even with weak passwords.
• Individualized Encryption: WPA3 provides individualized data encryption for each connected device.⁷ This means that even if one device is compromised, the rest of your network remains secure.
• Enhanced Security for Public Wi-Fi (OWE): WPA3 introduces Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE) for open Wi-Fi networks.⁸ This encrypts the connection between your device and the access point, protecting your data from eavesdropping in cafes, airports, and other public spaces.⁹
• Simplified IoT Security: WPA3 includes Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Easy Connect, simplifying the process of securely onboarding IoT devices that often lack displays.¹⁰

Why Your Old Router Might Be Holding You Back

If your router is more than a few years old, it likely doesn't support WPA3. Even if it does, it might not be able to fully utilize its features. Here's why upgrading your router is often necessary:

• WPA3 Compatibility: Older routers simply don't have the hardware or firmware to support WPA3.
• Wi-Fi 6/6E Benefits: Newer routers often incorporate Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or Wi-Fi 6E, offering significantly faster speeds, improved capacity, and reduced latency.¹¹ This is especially beneficial in homes with multiple devices.
• Improved Performance and Range: Older routers can struggle to provide reliable Wi-Fi coverage, especially in larger homes or with many connected devices.¹² Newer routers often offer better range and performance.¹³
• Future-Proofing: Upgrading to a WPA3-capable router ensures that your network is prepared for future security threats and technological advancements.
• Better handling of modern device protocols: Modern devices are built to utilise the newest wifi protocols. Older routers will bottleneck these newer devices.¹⁴

Making the Switch: What to Look For

When choosing a new router:

• Ensure it's "Wi-Fi CERTIFIED WPA3."
• Consider a router with Wi-Fi 6 or 6E for improved performance.
• Choose a router with sufficient range and capacity for your home and the number of devices you use.
• Check for firmware update availability. A router with frequent updates will be more secure.

The Bottom Line:

In today's digital world, security is paramount. Upgrading to WPA3 and a modern router is a crucial step in protecting your Wi-Fi network from evolving threats. Don't wait until you become a victim of a cyberattack. Take proactive steps to secure your network and enjoy the benefits of faster, more reliable Wi-Fi.