When accessing your router’s navigation page by entering 192.168.1.1 into your preferred web browser, one of two things will happen. If everything is working as intended, you will be able to enter into the navigator and change or update any settings as needed. You are likely there to reset your router’s password and doing so should only be another click or two away.
The other possibility is that you are met with a “not secure” message and unable to continue as you would hope. There’s nothing to worry about here, seeing “not secure” only means that your router is connecting via HTTP opposed to HTTPS, which secures and encrypts the connection.
HTTP Vs HTTPS
For those who are seeing these terms for the first time, HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol and it is how web pages are loaded in your browser. This sends information between devices, with one being your device and the other being the server where the requested data is stored. With HTTPS, the first four letters of the acronym are the same and S stands for “secure.”
The HTTPS protocol makes sure the data sent between your device and the router is encrypted before being sent out to a server so it cannot be stolen by hackers. When seeing the “not secure” notification as you attempt to enter your router navigator, it could mean that the page itself is vulnerable to hacking and interception. While this isn’t always the cause of your issue, it is the most likely culprit.
What Can Be Done?
Historically, most routers have connected to your devices through HTTP. This is at least the setting by default which, as explained, means that the data sent between your device and router without protection.Given your router was manufactured in the last couple of years, it is possible that it supports HTTPS.
To confirm this, simply type HTTPS before entering your router’s IP address. Doing this will create a secure connection which means your transmitted data will be kept safe and away from those who wish to do you harm. Unfortunately, this quick and easy solution may not always work but in the event that it doesn’t, there are still more options to try.
Could It Be Anything Else?
It is entirely possible that you are connected to your router navigator via HTTPS but will see the “not secure” warning in your browser. Still seeing this error could be caused by simply having your router be on outdated hardware. Like any other piece of technology, it is crucial to make sure any device is on the current software version so it is running as smoothly and safely as possible.
The easiest, and most certain, way to test this would be to navigate to the router manufacturer’s website and download the latest version of the software from their support page. Once it is installed, restart the router before trying to reconnect to the navigator interface to ensure you are working with the latest security options and features.
