With the rise of smart homes and connected devices, many homeowners are faced with the question of whether or not to put their IoT devices on the guest network. The guest network is typically used for visitors and is considered to be less secure than the main network. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of putting IoT devices on the guest network and provide some tips on how to ensure the security of your smart home.
Pros of Putting IoT Devices on Guest Network
1. Isolation from Main Network
One of the main advantages of putting your IoT devices on the guest network is that it isolates them from your main network. This means that even if one of your IoT devices is compromised, the hacker will not have direct access to your personal data or other devices on your network. This can help to prevent any potential security breaches and protect your privacy.
2. Easy Access for Guests
By putting your IoT devices on the guest network, you can easily grant access to your guests without having to share your main network password. This can be especially useful if you frequently have visitors or if you are hosting events at your home. Guests can connect to the guest network and use your IoT devices without having access to your personal files or network settings.
3. Bandwidth Management
Another advantage of putting IoT devices on the guest network is that it allows you to manage the bandwidth usage of these devices separately from your main network. IoT devices such as smart cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants can consume a significant amount of bandwidth, which can slow down your internet connection. By putting them on a separate network, you can prioritize your main network for your personal use and ensure a smooth browsing experience.
Cons of Putting IoT Devices on Guest Network
1. Reduced Security
While putting your IoT devices on the guest network can help to isolate them from your main network, it also means that they are less secure. The guest network is typically less protected and may not have the same level of security features as your main network. This can make your IoT devices more vulnerable to attacks and hacking attempts.
2. Limited Functionality
Another drawback of putting IoT devices on the guest network is that it may limit their functionality. Some IoT devices require access to your main network in order to function properly. For example, if you have a smart lock that is connected to your main network, putting it on the guest network may prevent you from remotely controlling or monitoring it. Before putting your IoT devices on the guest network, check their compatibility and ensure that they will still function as intended.
3. Inconvenience for Regular Use
If you frequently use your IoT devices and rely on them for everyday tasks, putting them on the guest network may be inconvenient. You will need to switch networks every time you want to use your devices or control them remotely. This can be time-consuming and may disrupt your workflow. Consider whether the added security of the guest network outweighs the inconvenience of using your IoT devices on a separate network.
Tips for Securing IoT Devices on Guest Network
If you decide to put your IoT devices on the guest network, here are some tips to help ensure their security:
1. Change Default Passwords
When setting up your IoT devices, make sure to change the default passwords to strong, unique passwords. Default passwords are often easy to guess and can make your devices more vulnerable to attacks. Choose passwords that are at least 12 characters long and include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
2. Keep Firmware Updated
Regularly check for firmware updates for your IoT devices and install them as soon as they become available. Firmware updates often include security patches and bug fixes that can help to protect your devices from vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure that your devices are always up to date.
3. Disable Unnecessary Features
Review the settings of your IoT devices and disable any features or services that you do not need. This can help to reduce the attack surface and minimize the risk of unauthorized access. For example, if your smart camera has a remote viewing feature that you do not use, disable it to prevent potential privacy breaches.
4. Use a Firewall
Consider using a firewall to add an extra layer of protection to your IoT devices. A firewall can help to monitor and filter incoming and outgoing network traffic, preventing unauthorized access to your devices. Many routers have built-in firewall capabilities that you can enable in the settings.
Conclusion
When it comes to putting IoT devices on the guest network, there are both pros and cons to consider. While the guest network can provide isolation and easy access for guests, it also comes with reduced security and limited functionality. It is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. Regardless of whether you choose to put your IoT devices on the guest network or your main network, following security best practices and regularly updating your devices can help to protect your smart home.
Summary
Putting IoT devices on the guest network has its advantages and disadvantages. While it can provide isolation and easy access for guests, it also comes with reduced security and limited functionality. To ensure the security of your IoT devices on the guest network, it is important to change default passwords, keep firmware updated, disable unnecessary features, and use a firewall. Ultimately, the decision of whether to put your IoT devices on the guest network or your main network should be based on your specific needs and preferences.
