Naming Your WiFi: Tips for Secure Silliness

Naming your WiFi network is important. Too common and guests won’t be able to figure out which network is yours; too specific and you might get some strange questions. The best WiFi names are those you can remember easily but don’t give away personal information or hint at passwords. Humor is usually a good idea in moderation — so, how do you pick a silly and secure WiFi name?

Naming Conventions

There are no rules that govern the naming of your WiFi. Most networks default to the name of the wireless router company, so when you first set up a network it will likely be named “Linksys” or “DLink” or something similar. In addition, most networks default to “open,” meaning they can be accessed by anyone in range using a wireless-enabled device.

To change the name of your WiFi and security settings:

• Go to the admin panel of your router. Every router company uses a slightly different home IP address, which will be listed as part of the router’s documentation. Point your Web browser to this address and you’ll find a login page. Again, look to the router’s instruction manual, but most companies use “admin” as the login name and don’t require a password. Others don’t require a user name, but default to “admin” as the password.
• Once you’ve accessed the router’s system panel, navigate to the security tab and you’ll find options to change both your network’s name and security settings.
• If possible, enable WPA2 security, which allows you to create a password and offers the highest level of protection when you’re connected. WPA is a less secure option, but enable it if you can’t get WPA2 protection. If you have no other choice, use WEP.
• Make sure your password is something you’ll remember but isn’t “admin” or the name of the router company.

Next, it’s time to select a new WiFi name.

It’s Catchy, Right?

There are a few best practices when it comes to naming your WiFi network:

• Don’t use any personal information such as your name, date of birth, or street address. While using personal data helps you and your family pick out the right wireless network, it also gives out dangerous information to whoever else might be looking.
• Don’t pick a name that’s too over the top, embarrassing, or offensive. Slightly scandalous WiFi names and dirty jokes have become commonplace for many users, but try explaining why you picked an off-color name to children or relatives — better to stick with something funny and clean. For example, “Too Fly for a WiFi” is clever without being over the top and is also easy to remember, and many users still choose “FBI Surveillance Van” as a way to put off would-be hackers.
• The best sources of funny WiFi names come from hobbies you enjoy or sports you play; in a household of golfers, for example, a good WiFi name might be “The 19th Hole.” A football-loving family might pick “4th and 10 Mbps,” while dog owners could create a “WooFi” network.

Using your imagination is key to choosing a funny WiFi name — one you can easily remember but doesn’t give away password or personal information.