this post was submitted on 09 Sep 2026
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Privacy
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Yeah this is why I've long suspected this is the reason Google doesn't let you shut off Bluetooth or wifi permanently easily anymore. Both resemble by default. And I think WiFi even stays on on android when you have it off to facilitate a feature to detect other networks or something.
If you're willing to fortify your network in terms of security, I highly recommend building yourself a WiFi router or just buying a highly customizable one like MikroTik or alternatives as such. I think its easily the best defense for such cases.
Totally agree - if you buy the latest TP link (or whateverm model) rather than build your own, you are handing someone else your credentials. Save that old PC and repurpose it as a router
Any recs for the best choice for buying a home router for someone who doesn't have the knowledge to build or configure one? I'm smart enough to change the admin password and rename the default network/setup a new password, but that's about it. Mine just stopped getting security updates, plus it's a Netgear. I know no one is really trustworthy anymore, but I know some brands are more sketchy than others.
The one thing I am certain of is I will not go with tp link ever again. All the add ins they charge monthly for are free with the right router. Plus I've never gotten an update to my WiFi 6 tplink . Wait .. didn't open WRT make their own router ? ? That is the one I'd go for because they load the open source software on it ready for you to configure. I'd imagine this is better than many other options.
Or don't use wi-fi at all and stick with Ethernet.
I'm a network engineer, and I've built it 🤣
You've worked on MikroTik? If so, my warmest congratulations, my absolutely favorite piece of technology in my home. 🙇
I have but I'm not using mikrotik, I'm using opnsense
Why is that if I may ask? I mean, opnsense is indeed more versatile from what I can see.
Mikrotik is more a router. Opnsense in this, open source, and significantly better at the firewall part. Ad blocking, threat prevention, etc
Xfinity includes it in their new Wifi router and presents it as a feature:
https://www.xfinity.com/hub/smart-home/wifi-motion
You also are not able to run your own hardware, you must use theirs. This is why I canceled Xfinity on the same day they installed it, after discovering this.
Fuck everything about that. Literal ISP spyware!
What do you mean by their hardware? I have Xfinity (it's the only option for Internet in my apartment complex) and I have my own modem and router. I've never used Xfinity's equipment.