Cybersecurity Risks and Mitigations in Home Network Routers: Lessons from Firmware Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56472/ICCSAIML25-148Keywords:
Home Network Security, Router Firmware, Cyber security Risks, Firmware Vulnerabilities, Router Exploits, Security Mitigations, Cyber-attacks, Firmware Analysis, Vulnerability Assessment, Consumer Routers, Cyber Defences, Router Configuration, Security Best PracticesAbstract
The increasing reliance on home network routers for internet connectivity has made them prime targets for cyber-attacks. These devices, which are often the first line of defences against external threats, can harbour significant vulnerabilities due to insecure firmware, weak default configurations, and lack of timely updates. This research investigates the cybersecurity risks associated with home network routers, with a particular focus on the analysis of their firmware. By extracting and analyzing the firmware of several popular consumer routers, this study identifies common security flaws, such as insecure default credentials, backdoors, and out-dated software versions. The paper further explores the implications of these vulnerabilities in real-world scenarios, drawing lessons from past security breaches. Based on these findings, it offers a comprehensive set of mitigations, including best practices for securing router configurations, the importance of regular firmware updates, and recommendations for both consumers and manufacturers to improve router security. Ultimately, this research aims to provide a clear understanding of the risks posed by home routers and the necessary steps to mitigate them
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