Learn how to take advantage of included security tools and about advanced security features.
Step 1: Decide what level of internet security you need
When using the internet, it is important to protect yourself from online threats, like phishing and malicious software.
Internet and network security is more than an anti-virus scanner on your computer. You might also choose to have other protection, such as:
When choosing the amount of internet security you need, consider the hazards you could encounter online and the amount of privacy you need. For instance, you may feel the need for more network protection if you find yourself on websites you do not completely trust.
Step 2: Choose a home network security provider
There are many options available for home network protection.
Your internet service provider may have internet security services available. If you have AT&T Fiber, you already have access to AT&T ActiveArmor℠ security features.
AT&T ActiveArmor internet security is 24/7 proactive security for AT&T Fiber customers that helps stop threats before they get to you.¹ Your security is our top priority, which is why all AT&T Fiber plans include standard features with AT&T ActiveArmor at no extra charge.
You can access and manage your AT&T ActiveArmor internet security features with the AT&T Smart Home Manager app. You also have the option to unlock advanced privacy and protection features for $7/mo. (plus taxes) through the Smart Home Manager app.²
With the combined protection of standard and advanced ActiveArmor security features, you can better protect your personal data. In addition to encrypted VPN service, enhanced browser security, and threat monitoring, you’ll also receive alerts for at-risk devices, at-risk passwords, and leaks of personal information.³
Step 3: Set up your internet security program
After choosing a home internet security solution, you’ll need to set it up. You may need to restart your device after installing or access your router’s configuration settings.
If you are an AT&T Fiber customer, use the AT&T Smart Home Manager app to access and manage AT&T ActiveArmor:
After setting up Smart Home Manager, you’ll have AT&T ActiveArmor with standard features.
Standard AT&T ActiveArmor features include:
AT&T Fiber subscribers can upgrade to AT&T ActiveArmor with advanced features for $7/mo. plus taxes.
Advanced AT&T ActiveArmor features include:
Once ActiveArmor has been upgraded with advanced internet security features, VPN at Home, Threat Activity Dashboard, ID Monitoring, and Advanced Content Controls will be available on the AT&T Smart Home Manager app.
Step 4: Set up strong browser security settings
After setting up an internet security program, you’ll want to make sure you have strong browser security settings.
Strong browser security settings can warn you of dangerous websites on blacklists and help you avoid using passwords that are weak or easily guessed. Having good browser security measures in place can prevent time-consuming security breaches.
How to use AT&T ActiveArmor Advance Content Controls
Advance Content Controls take the guesswork out of safe browsing with simple, customizable security settings.8 Once you have upgraded to AT&T ActiveArmor advanced features, set up Advance Content Controls through the Smart Home Manager app.
By enabling the Advance Content Controls advanced browser security settings, users can avoid online threats before they even encounter them. Strong browser security settings help you avoid threats from following dangerous links online, such as phishing, drive-by links, and malware.
Step 5: Set up network protection
After making sure you have a good internet security program and secure browser settings, ensure your home network is protected. Two common ways to protect home networks are firewalls and VPN connections.
By default, most home routers have a firewall in place to help protect you from dangerous internet traffic. It is important to make sure that your router has these settings and that the firewall is turned on.
A VPN is a virtual private network that hides your IP address and can encrypt your traffic. VPN service is usually subscription-based, but you may also connect to a VPN for work.
How to activate the AT&T ActiveArmor VPN at Home:
If you upgrade to advanced protection, you can use the AT&T VPN at Home to keep your digital information private and protect connected household devices.⁷ After you upgrade, simply activate the AT&T VPN at Home through the Smart Home Manager app.
With the AT&T VPN at Home enabled, you can use AT&T’s secure virtual private network through an encrypted connection. This will mask your true IP address from online snoops and make it more difficult for third parties to collect personal information.
Step 6: Monitor for threats
You may wish to regularly check that your internet security is updated and activated.
Some internet security and network protection programs have advanced features to help you proactively monitor for security threats. Proactive monitoring features help give you peace of mind and reassurance that your network is secure.
How to access the Threat Activity Dashboard:
The Threat Activity Dashboard can show you a real-time view of how AT&T ActiveArmor internet security is protecting your network.
When you upgrade to the AT&T ActiveArmor advanced features, you can access the Threat Activity Dashboard through the AT&T Smart Home Manager. There, you can see how AT&T ActiveArmor is working to protect your network and connected devices and view insights on blocked threats.
How to activate AT&T ActiveArmor ID Monitoring:
You may choose to set up AT&T ActiveArmor ID Monitoring to help protect yourself against identity theft. In the incidence of leaked personal information, finding out as quickly as possible may help victims respond more effectively.
Once you upgrade to AT&T ActiveArmor advanced features, you can access AT&T ActiveArmor ID Monitoring through the Smart Home Manager app. ID Monitoring will give you alerts and useful tips if your personal information is leaked.
1 Available to AT&T Fiber customers. Guards against known threats only. Compatible gateway and Smart Home Manager app required. Security features must be enabled.
2 Available to AT&T Fiber customers. Requires latest gateway (BGW320). Security features must be enabled. May not protect against user-authorized access to home network and detect all compromises of leaks of your personal data.
3 May not detect all compromises or leaks of your personal data.
4 Customer can override blocking; no warning will be given for overridden sites. May not protect against user-authorized access to home network.
5 Security features must be enabled.
6 Blocks known threats only. Customer can override blocking; no warning will be given for overridden sites. May not protect against user-authorized access to home network.
7 May not protect against user-authorized access to home network.
8 User can override blocking; no warning will be given for overridden sites or content.