What is a critical security step when setting up a wireless access point?

Changing the default password is indeed a critical security step when setting up a wireless access point. Many devices, including wireless routers and access points, come with preset usernames and passwords. These default credentials are often publicly available, making it easy for unauthorized users to gain access to the network if they are not changed. By replacing the default password with a strong, unique one, one can significantly enhance the security of the network, making it more difficult for potential intruders to penetrate the system.

While updating the firmware, disabling SSID broadcast, and configuring the encryption type are also important security measures, they do not address the immediate vulnerability posed by default credentials as directly. Keeping the default password makes the device susceptible to attacks regardless of the other security measures in place. Therefore, changing the default password is paramount in protecting the wireless network from unauthorized access.