Disable sharing for files and folders

If you are using your laptop to connect to public Wi-Fi networks, you should disable file and folder sharing as a precautionary measure. When you're at home using your own network, this type of sharing can be an easy and convenient way to exchange data between computers. But on public networks, this sharing can be a potential way for attackers. That is why you should be sure to close off this access point. After all, you probably won't actually need to use the sharing feature while you're on holiday anyway.

Don't get your hopes up for high speed

In case you do actually need to use large and important files while you're travelling, you should copy them to your mobile devices before you leave or take them with you on a USB storage device. This method gives you two major advantages. It's lets you avoid potential security risks when downloading files over free Wi-Fi networks and saves you from lengthy download times. Generally speaking, public networks aren't exactly known for having high speeds.

Make sure connections are secure

You should always follow this tip when browsing the Internet – especially when you're using public Wi-Fi connections. Secure and encrypted connections to websites and online services are extremely important. They ensure that the transmitted data cannot be read by other people on the same network by default. This plays an especially crucial role when transferring payment information or other personal information. This is why you should always make sure to use what are called HTTPS connections. You can identify whether a connection is an HTTPS connection because the web browser will display a lock icon next to the URL.

Use a VPN

If you use a VPN tunnel (virtual private network), the data is sent via the public Wi-Fi with encryption. Many anti-virus manufacturers offer special VPN programs or VPN apps which you can install on your mobile device.

Tip for advanced users: Set up your own VPN server. Then you can transmit your data to your Internet router via a VPN tunnel with encryption. This solution lets you exchange data between your end device and the station, and the data cannot be read by others on the public Wi-Fi network. Put more simply, all of your online communication runs through your router. Just as if you were at home – even if somewhat slower. For information on how to set up your own VPN connection, see the manual for your router.

Install updates

Before your trip, update all the software on your mobile devices and install any available security updates. This is the only way to ensure that any known gaps in security have been closed and that attackers won't be able to use these gaps to target you on public networks.

Wi-Fi at home: fast, secure, trouble-free

Would you rather avoid thinking about all this when you're at home, not travelling? Then you can turn to the smart home networking solutions from devolo. The German Internet experts offer you a tremendous variety of products that you can use to give your home a fast and secure connection to the web. From Powerline solutions such as the devolo Magic adapters, which provide any room with an Internet signal over the mains supply, to lightning-fast Wi-Fi repeaters, which are especially easy to install.