A shocking number of hotel guests use public Wi-Fi without considering the risks. According to a cybersecurity survey, over 40% of travelers connect to unsecured networks while staying in hotels. It may seem harmless, but hotel wifi can expose personal information if not used with care.

Before connecting to a free wifi internet hotel room near you, there are a few simple steps to help protect your data and device. Here’s what to know before you hit “connect.”

1. Ask the Front Desk for the Official Network Name

Always confirm the exact network name with hotel staff. Hackers sometimes set up fake hotspots with names that sound like the hotel’s wifi.

If you connect to the wrong network, your emails, passwords, or banking info could be stolen without you knowing.

2. Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information

Limit what you do online when using public wifi.

Even if the connection feels stable, it’s safer to:

• Avoid logging into banking or payment apps
• Skip online shopping
• Stay off work-related platforms that hold private data

Being cautious, especially in the best free wifi internet hotel room, protects your privacy.

3. Use a VPN When Possible

A virtual private network (VPN) adds a layer of encryption to your internet use. It makes it harder for hackers to see your activity, even on shared hotel wifi.

VPNs are especially useful for:

• Remote workers
• Frequent travelers
• Anyone using passwords or personal accounts

You can find free or low-cost VPN options that are easy to install and use on mobile or laptops.

4. Turn Off Auto-Connect and File Sharing

Most devices are set to connect automatically to available networks. This can be risky in hotel environments.

Before using any free wifi internet hotel room near you, do the following:

• Turn off auto-connect
• Disable file sharing
• Switch off AirDrop or Bluetooth sharing features

This adds an extra layer of control over your device’s exposure.

5. Update Software and Use Antivirus Tools

Make sure your operating system, applications, and antivirus software are all updated to the latest versions. Cybercriminals often look for outdated systems with weak defenses.

When you’re connected to public wifi, these tools help scan for threats and block dangerous links.

Keeping devices current is a quick way to boost security — even when staying in the best free wifi internet hotel room.

6. Log Out and Forget the Network After Use

Once you finish using hotel wifi:

• Log out of all accounts
• “Forget” the network so your device won’t reconnect automatically
• Restart your phone or computer if needed

This helps limit exposure and clears cached data from your session.

7. Look for Hotels That Offer Secure Wifi Settings

Some hotels take extra steps to protect their guests online, like requiring individual login credentials or using WPA2 encryption.

The Rocker Inn, for instance, offers guests a fast, secure, and dependable Wi-Fi connection throughout their stay. Our network allows both leisure and business travelers to stay connected while keeping data protected.

When you choose places like this for your free wifi internet hotel room near you, you get better peace of mind and smoother connectivity.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to overlook security when connecting to hotel wifi. But a few quick actions—like using a VPN, disabling file sharing, and logging out properly—go a long way.

Whether you’re on vacation or a business trip, staying aware of online safety habits matters. Next time you check into a hotel, especially one offering the best free wifi internet hotel room, you’ll be prepared.

And if you’re staying in Montana, The Rocker Inn offers comfort, convenience, and a wifi setup guests can trust.