Because your wifi is being shared without you knowing
Your shared Wi-Fi without knowing: privacy and security risks.
Many landline operators, in an attempt to expand their network or offer additional services, have introduced the feature of “shared Wi-Fi” or “community networks”. This means that your router, in addition to creating your private network, automatically generates another network, accessible to other customers of the same operator. Often, this option is turned on defaultleaving the burden of discovering and disabling it to the user. The reasoning behind it is laudable: create a vast network of hotspots for the benefit of all. However, the reality is that this practice can have a significant impact on quality of your connection.
Every time someone connects to this “public” network via your modem, a portion of your bandwidth is taken up to handle the guest’s traffic. The result? Your daily browsing, movie streaming, video calls or online gaming sessions experience sudden and inexplicable slowdowns. In addition to the question of speed, there is an equally important aspect: the safety. Although these networks are usually isolated from the main one, the presence of “outsiders” using your network infrastructure can always raise questions about the protection of your data and privacy.
How to take back control of your connection and surf faster
Take back the reins of your internet connection: more control, more speed.
Fortunately, regaining full control of your bandwidth is a simple task, but it requires careful navigation of your router’s settings. The first step is to access the modem’s administration interface. Usually, you just need to type your router’s IP address (often 192.168.1.1 o 192.168.0.1) in a web browser. Login credentials (username and password) are often printed on the device label or easily found on your operator’s website.
Once inside, look for the section relating to Wi-Fi or at advanced settings. Each operator has a slightly different interface, but the entries to look for are similar: “Shared Wi-Fi”, “Guest Network”, “Community Wi-Fi”, “Wi-Fi Hotspot” or “Public Wi-Fi”. You will find a toggle or checkbox for deactivate this functionality. Save your changes and restart your modem if required.
After completing these steps, you will immediately notice the difference. Your internet line will not only return to offering the speed you paid for, but it will also be more stable and safe. You will have eliminated a potential access point for external users and freed up precious bandwidth that, until then, had been generously “given” to the neighborhood. Don’t accept any more compromises on your connection: it’s time to reclaim the full power of your Wi-Fi.
