Cybersecurity News You Can Use – Home Network Security
Why you SHOULD’T plug your computer into your modem
Cyber threats are exploding as a result of the global shift to remote work and e-learning due to
COVID-19. One of the biggest threats is people plugging devices directly into a cable or fiber
modem – which is essentially an unprotected front door from the Internet to your device. In this
document we explain key terms and provide simple steps you can take to stay #CyberSmart.
In this Edition:
• Router vs. Modem – what you need to know
• Why routers are our friends
• How you can protect yourself online
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF)
•
Plugging a computer or laptop directly into a modem is a bad idea.
This is a major security risk because it bypasses security configurations that a router (or,
modem/router combination) have set up by default.
•
If you don’t use your router, it’s equivalent to leaving your ‘virtual’ front door wide
open to attackers, allowing bad actors to take advantage of vulnerable software that
you may have installed on your device.
You SHOULD plug your computer or laptop into a router or router/modem
combination as those devices have security controls built in.
Key Terms
Modem:
•
A modem is a device that connects your home, usually through a coax cable or fiber optic
connection, to your Internet service provider (ISP). Common ISPs in North Dakota are:
•
Midcontinent
•
BEK
•
CenturyLink
•
Dakota Central
•
The connection between your house and the Internet is known as a wide area network
(WAN). This is essentially the virtual door from your computer to the Internet. Each modem
has an assigned a public IP address that identifies it on the Internet.
Router: