Strengthening Security in RT/RW Community Networks: A Case Study on Router Default Configuration Vulnerabilities in Indonesia
Abstract
RT/RW community networks have become an affordable internet solution in Indonesia. However, their implementations frequently rely on routers left in factory-default configurations, creating severe security vulnerabilities. Common weaknesses include unchanged default credentials, outdated firmware, weak Wi-Fi encryption, enabled remote management, and lack of network segmentation—conditions that greatly increase risks of unauthorized access, bandwidth theft, DNS hijacking, and data interception.
This study evaluates router configuration vulnerabilities across five RT/RW Net regions in Indonesia using a case study approach involving direct configuration analysis, operator interviews, and risk assessment based on IEEE 802.11 and NIST SP 800-153 frameworks. Findings reveal that 66% of routers still use default credentials, 54% rely on legacy WEP/WPA encryption, and 80% lack firmware updates. Furthermore, 40% of routers expose administrative ports without additional authentication.
The study proposes a three-tier security framework—basic, intermediate, and advanced protection—to help operators strengthen network resilience. The results contribute to improving community network security practices while providing academic enrichment in the field of micro-community network protection.
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