Don't use your router's USB port when these alternatives exist, a PC expert explains

ZDNET advises against using USB ports on home routers due to security and reliability concerns, noting many rely on outdated, unencrypted protocols (FTP, SMBv1) susceptible to exploitation and can degrade network performance, cause instability, and risk data corruption; it recommends safer alternatives like a NAS with encryption/RAID or reputable cloud storage, and if use is unavoidable, to restrict it to non-sensitive files and keep router firmware up to date.