Software updates frequently include patches for security vulnerabilities that attackers actively exploit, so delaying updates leaves known gaps open on your devices — automatic updates are the simplest way to stay protected. Home Wi-Fi security starts with changing the router's default administrator password and username (which are often publicly known for a given model) and using WPA3 or, where unavailable, WPA2 encryption rather than outdated and easily broken WEP. Antivirus software scans for and removes known malicious files, a firewall controls which network traffic is allowed in or out of a device, and a VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet traffic, which is especially useful on public Wi-Fi where attackers can otherwise intercept unencrypted data.