Today's routers are usually already preconfigured and as a user you only need to switch on the device and enter the user data for your provider.
For connecting Macs and other iOS products, Apple provides some tips for network administrators and people managing their own home network.
Apple's goal is to achieve optimal compatibility with iPhone, iPad and Mac: for example, from iOS 14 and watchOS 7, MAC address filtering must be disabled, otherwise these devices will experience issues connecting to the router.
In this article, we tell you how to enter these settings, change them and reconnect them to the network.
1. Backup
Before changing the settings, you should make a copy of your router's current settings. The vast majority of models offer such an option for data security. This is usually a text file that you can download to your Mac.
2. Change the SSID (Wi-Fi network name)
Each router has a network name, assigned by the manufacturer, it often has a generic name like netgear or dlink.
You must change it through the router's default settings and replace it with a name of your choice, be aware that it is case sensitive.
Some routers use different names for the 2,4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, you should avoid this.
With different names, devices may not be able to connect, and with generic names like netgear, they will constantly try to connect to other routers with the "netgear" name.
3. Do not hide SSID
Only surface security is guaranteed by hiding the network name. You can configure the router not to display the name of a network.
However, this does not protect you against real attacks, and may even make your network insecure due to the way it connects.
When you connect to such a network, your devices may also display a privacy warning.
4. Security Settings
The best security settings are WPA3 (if available) or WPA3/WPA2 Transition mode.
WPA3 is the most secure security protocol and it works with all devices that support Wi-Fi 6, including the iPhone 11. Using WPA3/WPA2 Transition mode, newer devices will use Wi-Fi 6 .
You should use at least the WPA2 (AES) protocol and avoid the older ones like WEP.
5. Adresses MAC (Wi-Fi)
MAC address filtering must be disabled. This allows you to make a list of MAC addresses and restrict access to devices that are not on it. Be aware, however, that you will not be protected from attacks.
With iOS 14, it is possible to change the MAC address regularly to avoid being spied on.
6. Router Update
It is important that your router software is up to date. Manufacturers often release new versions of their firmware to secure your router. We recommend that you update them, they are done from the router's administration interface. Generally, they are automatic.
7. Enable All Bands
All Wi-Fi standards must be active, from Wi-Fi 2 to Wi-Fi 6 or 802.11a/g/n/ac/ax.
The advantage is that all devices can use the fastest band they support, there will be less interference from other nearby networks and devices.
8. Use Auto Channel
For 2,4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, you can select a specific channel like "10" or "22". However, it is better to choose the "auto" setting.
The router then automatically selects a channel that is used by other neighboring networks. As this change is frequent, this automatic allocation proves to be the most judicious solution in the long term.
9. Enable DHCP
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) assigns IP addresses to devices on your network to communicate with each other. You must ensure that only one device or router is active as a DHCP server.
If possible, you can specify a limited rental period (lease), eight hours for home or office, and one hour for public networks.
10. Enable NAT function
NAT mode must be activated, it allows you to match internet and local addresses, so you can switch from one address to another. However, this function should only be active on the router.
11. Enable WMM function
WMM or Wireless Multimedia can boost the connection of video and voice applications. This feature should also be enabled to avoid network-wide problems.
Adaptation of the original article published on our sister site Macwelt.
