When the FBI warns For attacks on end-of-life (EOL) routers, this is a clear signal for organizations with connected devices. Cybercriminals deliberately target routers without updates. Without patches, your network becomes vulnerable, with direct consequences for your IoT environment.
In this blog post, you'll learn about the risks associated with EOL routers and the steps you can take to mitigate them.
Router is the starting point of your IoT security
The router is the gateway to all your connected devices and cloud applications. If that router is compromised, your data, applications, and processes are also exposed.
When a router reaches end-of-life, the manufacturer stops:
- Security updates;
- Bugfixes;
- Support for new vulnerabilities.
Malware automatically scans open ports
Attackers actively exploit this. Malware can automatically scan open ports and exploit vulnerable scripts. This often happens without even needing a password.
An infected router can thus be used for fraud, proxy services, or further attacks on other networks.
Updating firmware: small effort, big effect
The most immediate measure is simple. Keep your routers up to date or replace them when they reach end-of-life.
Firmware updates aren't functional extras. They fix specific security vulnerabilities. Skipping these updates opens the door to malware.
Our advice on EOL devices
We recommend that you always actively monitor the lifecycle of your routers. We also recommend regularly updating the firmware.
Has your used device been declared end-of-life? Then start working on a plan to replace this EOL equipment right away. This will prevent you from unintentionally continuing to run on unsafe infrastructure.
Device management with Advantech and Teltonika
Do you use routers from Advantech or Teltonika? Then you can easily manage firmware updates and device management centrally via a remote device management platform. Ideal when you manage multiple locations or many devices.
Advantech WebAccess DMP
For routers and gateways from Advantech, WebAccess DMP A powerful platform for remote device management. And manage your user permissions down to the last detail. WebAccess DMP gives you the ability to:
- Remote configuration, monitoring and customizable dashboards;
- Extra security with Two-Factor Authentication;
- VPN management for secure connectivity between locations;
- Zero-touch provisioning.
Teltonika RMS
For central management of Teltonika routers, use Teltonika RMS.This way you maintain an overview and control without having to manually log in on each device. With RMS you can:
- Firmware Over-The-Air (FOTA) and VPN connection for secure connectivity;
- Update multiple routers at once;
- Keep existing configurations;
- Gain real-time insight into status and connectivity.
Is updating firmware sufficient for good device security?
The answer is no. Up-to-date firmware is the foundation, but good security requires a broader approach. For example, change default usernames and passwords immediately. Also, disable unused remote access features.
Additionally, use VPN connections for secure access. And segment your network to keep IoT devices separate from other (critical) systems.
Plan replacement of EOL routers
Manufacturers communicate in advance when products will reach end-of-life. By anticipating this, you avoid unexpectedly being left without security updates.
In practice, we see that organizations often only react when problems arise. By proactively migrating to supported models, you remain compliant.
Need help?
Is your router EOL and want to know what the best replacement is? Or do you want to learn more about remote device management? Contact Contact us. We're happy to help!