Connecting to an unsecured network can be dangerous. Public Wi-Fi comes with risks such as the interception of private data, especially if you are entering passwords or other personal data on unencrypted websites.
First, though, what is the meaning of an unsecured network? An unsecured Wi-Fi network is a network that is not protected by a password. Usually, these networks are available in public areas, such as airports, hotels, bus stations, and elsewhere. The problem with these networks is that anyone can connect to them and potentially intercept data sent over the network.
Similarly, these networks may sometimes be spoof networks that are not really set up by the airport or hotel but rather by a private individual who wants to hack you and collect your data.
In this guide, I will tell you all you need to know about how to protect yourself from unsecured networks on a Mac.
Why Your Mac Might Connect to Unsecured Networks Automatically
Your Mac won’t auto-connect to open Wi-Fi networks by itself. However, if you previously connected to a public network that is open, your Mac will likely auto-connect to that public Wi-Fi network the next time you are within range of the network. That’s why you should go to your settings to prevent this automatic Wi-Fi connection.
Checking for Unsecured Networks in Wi-Fi Settings
To identify unsecured Wi-Fi in your Wi-Fi settings, click on the Wi-Fi icon at the top of your Mac. A list of Wi-Fi networks should show up; click on “Other Networks” to see other networks that don’t show up at first.
A secure network will have a lock icon next to it. An unsecured network will not.
Disabling Auto-Join for Public Wi-Fi Networks
To disable auto-join and stop your Mac from connecting to a public Wi-Fi network you had previously connected to, click on the Wi-Fi icon at the top of your Mac and then on “Network Preferences.” Or, navigate to System Settings > Network.
Then, next to “Network Name,” select the network from the drop-down list and uncheck the box next to “Automatically join this network.”
Using Network Diagnostics to Investigate Wi-Fi Issues
If you are experiencing network issues, you can troubleshoot your Wi-Fi by using Mac’s Wireless Diagnostics tool.
Close all your apps first. Then, Press and hold the Option key and click on the Wi-Fi icon at the top of the screen while still holding the Option key. Then, click on Open Wireless Diagnostics and follow the prompts to run the diagnostics tool and discover network issues.
Setting Preferred Wi-Fi Networks for Priority Connections
Did you know that you can set a preferred Wi-Fi network on your Mac? The Wi-Fi priority settings will determine which network your Mac connects to automatically when several networks are available. Always set a secure Wi-Fi network as your preferred network.
Click on the Wi-Fi icon at the top of your screen and then on “Network Preferences” or go to System Settings > Network. Then, click on “Advanced.” Change the order of the Wi-Fi networks that appear by dragging and dropping them in the list. The top one will be your preferred network. If it’s not available, your Mac will connect to the second network in the list and so on. Remember to save your changes by clicking “OK.”
Updating Router and Security Settings for Home Wi-Fi
Finally, make sure that you have set up secure Wi-Fi settings for your router. You should have a WPA3 router if you don’t yet have one. This new standard was released in 2018 and is much more secure than routers that only offer WPA2, which would make it easier for hackers to crack a weak password.
Make sure your home network is secured with a strong password. Change it from the default password by logging into your router settings. Your router should come with a sticker and manual with information on how to log in and change the password. You should also change the username and password for the Wi-Fi settings login portal, as it’s often something easy to guess like “admin.”
Conclusion
Avoiding unsecured Wi-Fi will help you stay safe when using public Wi-Fi. These Mac Wi-Fi security tips will help you stay safe and reduce the risk of data interception. Along with using a secured Wi-Fi network, make sure to never enter personal data on websites that do not have HTTPS encryption.
