On the other hand, you have WPA2 and WPA3. A hacker can use tools and crack open a WEP-secured router in an hour max. This algorithm isn't used or even supported by most modern-day routers, but some older hardware will still use it. In general, the older the algorithm, the easier it is for a hacker to break into it.Īt the very bottom of the barrel is WEP. If they can't guess the password, hackers can pry open weaker security algorithms. As such, if you or someone else changed the password to something simple, you may want to consider creating a stronger one. However, these routers also allow people to change the Wi-Fi password, potentially to something weaker. As such, if you keep the default password, a hacker is far less likely to break in. You know the kind: the passwords that are just 'opensesame' or '123456' or even just 'password.' These are very easy to break open and allows the hacker entry into the Wi-Fi network.įortunately, routers come pre-programmed with strong, unique passwords these days. If they choose the former method, the hacker is looking for a weak and unsecure password. They can either begin guessing your password via brute force, or they can destroy the security algorithm. If someone wants to crack open your password, they can try one of two methods. If you live in an apartment, the residences around you will likely have good connection strength to your Wi-Fi. As such, their potential locations are limited to your neighbors, and perhaps the neighbors' neighbors. When someone wants to use your Wi-Fi network, they'll use this same connection. Eventually, you get no connection at all. This method of attack requires the hacker to be physically near your home so they can use the password to connect to your Wi-Fi network.īut how near is 'physically near?' If you've ever taken a laptop out into the garden, you've likely seen how, the further you go, the weaker the connection is. There are many ways a hacker can target a router, but we're focusing specifically on how they can get your Wi-Fi password.

If you use network-connected hard drives, a hacker will be interested in sneaking into your router and taking a peek for sensitive information. This can range from using your data to stream videos and download files, to performing illegal activity.Īlso, getting onto your router is the first step to accessing the devices on it. If a hacker gets a hold of the password to your Wi-Fi network, they can use your internet connection to do whatever they want. Here's how someone may attack your Wi-Fi, how they can steal your password, and what they can do with it. Hackers know how to hack your Wi-Fi password. However, there are methods that people use to take your password and use your connection as they see fit. Your Wi-Fi password is important to protect after all, if it leaks out, people can hop on your network and do whatever they please with your internet connection.

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