If you suspect that hackers have infiltrated your network, taking immediate action is crucial to secure your data and prevent further unauthorized access. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove hackers from your network and bolster your defenses against future attacks. Hire a white hat hacker
Remove Hackers From Your Network – Essential Steps
1. Disconnect the Network
- Disconnect All Devices: Start by disconnecting all devices from your network, including computers, smartphones, tablets, and any IoT devices. This helps to prevent hackers from controlling or extracting data from connected devices.
- Turn Off Wi-Fi Temporarily: Shutting down your Wi-Fi or wired network stops active threats and can give you time to work on securing your network.
2. Change Your Router Settings
- Update Router Login Credentials: Access your router’s settings (usually via your browser, using an IP like 192.168.1.1) and change the default login credentials. Use a strong, unique password for both the admin and Wi-Fi access.
- Switch to WPA3 Encryption: If available, use WPA3 encryption for your Wi-Fi network. WPA3 is more secure than previous versions, like WPA2, and helps block unauthorized access.
- Disable WPS: Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is convenient but vulnerable to attacks. Disabling WPS can prevent hackers from using brute-force attacks to access your network.
3. Update Router Firmware
- Check for Firmware Updates: Visit your router manufacturer’s website or the router’s settings page to see if there are any firmware updates. Firmware updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities.
- Enable Auto-Update if Available: Some routers allow you to enable auto-updates, ensuring you’re always using the latest, most secure version.
4. Scan for Malware on Connected Devices
- Install Security Software: Use reliable security software on all devices connected to your network. Free options like Malwarebytes or Avast offer good basic protection.
- Run a Full Scan: Perform a thorough malware scan on each device to identify and remove any malicious software hackers may have installed to maintain access.
- Quarantine or Delete Malicious Files: If any malware is detected, quarantine or remove it as recommended by your security software.
5. Check for Unknown Devices on Your Network
- Identify Connected Devices: Access your router’s admin interface and look for a list of connected devices. Make note of all devices you recognize.
- Remove Unfamiliar Devices: If you find any unknown devices, remove them by changing the Wi-Fi password and rebooting your router to kick them off. Only reconnect known, trusted devices afterward.
6. Enable Network Monitoring
- Set Up Network Monitoring Tools: Many routers have built-in network monitoring, or you can use third-party tools like Fing or GlassWire to keep an eye on device activity on your network.
- Receive Alerts for Suspicious Activity: Configure your monitoring tool to alert you if there are any new or suspicious devices on your network. This can help you detect intrusions in real-time.
7. Use a Guest Network
- Set Up a Separate Network for Guests and IoT Devices: Create a guest network to isolate less secure devices from your main network. This can prevent hackers from gaining access to sensitive data if they breach a less secure device.
- Disable Access to Sensitive Devices: Limit the guest network’s access to key devices, like your computer or home security system, for added protection.
8. Strengthen Passwords on All Devices
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Secure all devices, especially those with internet access, using strong, unique passwords. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Where possible, add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA on key accounts, such as your router admin and any network devices with sensitive information.
9. Reset Your Router
- Factory Reset Your Router: If you suspect deep infiltration or that settings have been tampered with, perform a factory reset. This reverts the router to its original settings, clearing out any unauthorized changes made by hackers.
- Reconfigure Security Settings: After resetting, re-enable WPA3 encryption, update your login credentials, and adjust any other security settings to their strongest settings.
10. Consult a Professional if Needed
- Hire a Security Expert: If the threat persists or you have sensitive information at risk, consult a cybersecurity professional. They can conduct a detailed analysis of your network and help remove any hidden threats.
- Conduct a Security Audit: A professional audit can help you identify vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit in the future and ensure your network is fully secured.
Conclusion
Removing hackers from your network requires a proactive approach, including disconnecting devices, updating passwords, scanning for malware, and securing your router. Once you’ve removed potential threats, continue monitoring your network and reinforcing security measures to prevent future intrusions. By staying vigilant and securing each device, you can better protect your network from hackers.