Default OEM passwords for networked devices

The manufacturers of networking devices (i.e., routers, switches, firewalls) and network-capable devices (such as printers and multifunction devices) often include built-in HTTP services that run on them. This HTTP functionality allows you to open web-based graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for the purpose of configuring and administering the devices. For example, here are the web GUIs for configuring a Netgear GS108T switch and a Linksys WRT54G wireless router.

Netgear GS108T administrative interface

Linksys WRT54G wireless router web configuration

As you can see, there are multiple tabs and submenus available to let you tweak the configuration of the device to meet your needs and preferences.

Most manufacturers password protect these interfaces to prevent access by intruders and other unauthorized individuals. The problem is that many device owners never bother to change these default original equipment manufacturer (OEM) passwords, and several websites exist that categorize and publish them (making them available to malicious and ethical hackers alike).

MediaFire.com

MediaFire.com provides online file storage which is one way to back up your files. MediaFire also allows you to share files with others.

GetHuman

GetHuman is a website that can save you significant amounts of time when you need to speak to real people who work for the companies we deal with.

Normally when you call a business’s default support lines, you are greeted by pre-recorded messages that guide you through an array of prompts. Some of these prompts require you to press buttons on your phone while other prompts actually tell you to speak. Very rarely does the voice recognition software actually work and answer your question or solve your problem.

From now on, do not use companies’ websites to find contact telephone numbers. Use GetHuman instead and you will probably save a lot of time.

The GetHuman main page