Home network
Separate smart devices from your computers and phones
A guest network is the easiest option for most homes. If your router does not offer one, or you need finer control, use a second router or VLANs.
A smart device on a separate network cannot directly reach your computers, phones or other home devices. This limits the damage if the device has a security flaw.
Start with a guest network. It is built into many routers and is usually the easiest option.
Choose an approach
A guest network suits most homes. The other options are for homes that need a separate firewall or more precise control over connections.
Guest network
For most people. One router, no new device, no monthly fee.
Second router
When your router has no guest network and you accept the drawbacks of two routers.
VLAN
When your router supports VLANs and you want finer control over connections.
What separation does and does not do
A correctly isolated guest network blocks direct connections from the device network to computers and phones. It does not block internet traffic or fix device faults.
A second router places computers and phones behind its own firewall. Smart devices remain on the first router's network.
A VLAN gives you the same separation, tuned more finely. It suits hardware that already supports VLANs and networks where each connection direction needs its own rule.
Separation restricts connections between devices. It does not replace updates, unique passwords or account security.
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