Which DD-WRT Wi-Fi Security Protocol Is the Safest?

Have you ever tried setting up your wireless network, only to be stumped when it asks you strange questions when creating a password? Or maybe you’ve tried connecting your gaming console or TV to your network and it asks what type of encryption to use? We breakdown different Wi-Fi security protocols that are used in all routers.

What is A DD-WRT Wi-Fi Security Protocol?

Picture it: Miami, 2022: You’re staying at a hotel and ask for the Wi-Fi password. They say, “There is no password, just connect to the network and you’re good to go!” Have you ever considered that this means that anyone that wants can access the network that you would be using?

With that access, someone could get into any device on the network and read the information being sent. Well, that’s the same thing that could happen if you don’t enable proper security protocols on your home router.

What Different Types of Wi-Fi Security Is There?

The password that you enter when you connect to a Wi-Fi network does more than just unlock your ability to use it. It also acts as a key to encrypt and decrypt information sent over the network. Without enabling such security, someone could swoop in and pluck your information out of thin air.

Previously, the only way to access a network was with a direct, physical wired connection. As wireless networks became more prevalent, security researchers had to find ways to protect connections that did not occur in person.

WEP (Wired Equivalency Privacy)

WEP was the first widespread wireless security protocol. It was introduced in 1997 and ratified in 1999. However, it had a myriad of flaws that could be exploited and was superseded just 4 years later. Unfortunately, on many routers, this is still an option and often is the first option available to users for encryption. You should NEVER use WEP.

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)

The WPA protocol replaced WEP, and used several new methods of encryption. First, it used the TKIP (Temporary Key Integrity Protocol), which creates a new 1280-bit key for every packet sent. While this was a major improvement over WEP, it still had flaws that could be exploited easily.

WPA2

Just a year later, a new protocol was introduced, which was to address these new issues. WPA2, sometimes known as RSN, enhances security with a four-way handshake and a group key handshake. It also uses the improved Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) block cipher, an improvement over TKIP. This is still the most common household wireless security type.

WPA3

Even with WPA2 running strong, in 2018, a new standard was released in WPA3. It is still not widely used, but promises even more security. It brings updates to many of the behind the scenes encryption methods of WPA2, and looks to bolster wireless security for years to come.

What is the Most Secure Wireless Protocol?

Because WPA3 is not widely used yet, you’ll need to balance your security needs with the reality of your home network equipment. Even if you have a router capable of WPA3, some of your devices may not be compatible. As such, most people will find using WPA2 w/ AES is the best method to secure their network. This can easily be done with a DD-WRT FlashRouter, and can make sure no outsiders can get into your devices and steal your information!

Best Routers For Using a Secure Wireless Protocol

NordLynx WiFi 6 Router – Privacy Hero

$199.99
$249.99

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• Perfect for Medium Homes
• Perfect for 20-30 Devices

AX3000 WiFi 6 VPN FlashRouter

$129.99
$149.99

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• Perfect for Medium Homes
• Perfect for 20-30 Devices

Asus RT-BE88U WiFi 7 Merlin FlashRouter

$469.99
$599.99

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• Upgraded with Custom Merlin Firmware.
• Next Gen WiFI 7 Update of Asus favorite model.

How Else Can I Protect My Network?

Of course, this is just one facet of keeping a safe and secure home network. Make sure to take other steps such as:

• Change your Default Router Login Info
• Move your router to a physically secure area
• Change your SSID (Network name)
• Keep apps up-to-date
• Turn off WPS (this is off by default on DD-WRT routers!)

Have any other router security questions? Feel free to ask!