Hackers can use your network for cyberattacks, connect to your computer, or even access your camera. If your internet slows down, your router becomes unusually active, or data usage spikes unexpectedly, someone may have connected to your Wi-Fi. And it’s not only about the internet speed but also about your safety. If you don’t take action against those neighbors, there is a risk that your bank account or Azurslot login will be stolen one day. So, let’s find out how to check for unauthorized users on your network.
How to Detect Unknown Devices on Your Wi-Fi Through a Browser
You can check all the devices using your network in your router settings.
To do this:
- Connect to your Wi-Fi, open your browser, and enter your router’s IP address into the address bar. Common IPs are:
- 168.0.1
- 168.1.1
- If those addresses don’t work, your router may use a different IP. You can find it:
- On a sticker on the router itself
- In the router’s manual
- Or find it via Command Prompt:
- Press Win + R, type cmd, and press OK
- Type ipconfig and hit Enter
- Look for the line Default Gateway — that’s your router’s IP
- For example, you might see: 192.168.1.254
- Open the IP address in a browser. On the login page, enter your router’s admin username and password (not the Wi-Fi password). These credentials are usually printed on the router unless changed.
- In the router menu, look for a section like “Connected Devices”, “Client List”, or “DHCP Clients”. This will show all currently connected devices.
Note: Section names may vary depending on router model. Check your router’s manual if needed.
Analyzing the List of Devices
Identify your own computers and gadgets by their name or MAC address (a unique network ID).
If you spot unfamiliar devices, your network may have been compromised.
To find your computer’s MAC address:
- Open Command Prompt (Win + R → type cmd → OK)
- Type: ipconfig /all and press Enter
- Look for Physical Address under Wi-Fi properties — that’s your MAC address
MAC addresses are assigned to network adapters, not devices, so you might see several listed (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.)
To find the MAC address of other devices:
- Smart TV: Go to network settings in the TV’s menu. Look for “MAC Address” or “Physical Address.”
- Android: Settings → About Phone → Status Info or Network → Wi-Fi MAC Address
- iOS: Settings → General → About → WLAN Address
MAC addresses are 6 groups of 2 characters, separated by colons or dashes.
How to Find Unknown Devices via an App
There are mobile and PC apps that can scan and list all devices connected to your network.
With Router Manufacturer Apps
Popular routers (TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic, etc.) have their own apps. TP-Link Tether, for example, shows all clients once logged in.
With Third-Party Apps
Apps like Fing (available for iOS and Android) scan your Wi-Fi and show a full list of connected devices with IP and MAC addresses.
You can create an account to save scan history, but it’s optional.
On PC
- Open Command Prompt (Win + R → type cmd)
- Type arp -a and press Enter
- You’ll see a list of IPs and MACs. Focus on dynamic types — these are active connections.
Static entries are usually system-reserved or manually added.
Network Scanners (PC Software)
Use tools like:
- Wireless Network Watcher (Windows)
- Angry IP Scanner (Windows, macOS, Linux)
These utilities scan your network and show connected devices with their IPs, MACs, and manufacturer names.
How to Block Unknown Devices
You can block unauthorized users in your router settings:
- Go to the router control panel (browser + router IP)
- Find the unfamiliar device in the list
- Go to the Blacklist or MAC Filtering section (usually under Security)
- Add the MAC address of the unwanted device to block it
- Change your Wi-Fi password. If you suspect an intruder, immediately change your password and disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
WPS, often a button on the router, allows password-free connections. It’s a major vulnerability if the router is in a public area or near an entrance.
How to Prevent Wi-Fi Theft in the Future
- Use strong passwords
- Mix letters, numbers, and symbols
- Use different passwords for Wi-Fi access and router admin panel
- Disable WPS
- Especially important in public or easily accessible areas
- Use WPA3 encryption, or at least WPA2
Newer encryption protocols are more secure; older routers may not support WPA3
- Update router firmware regularly
- Old software can have vulnerabilities
- To update:
- Go to the router’s settings page via browser
- Look for Firmware Update, System Upgrade, or similar
- Check for a new version and follow the on-screen instructions
- Hide your SSID (network name)
- In the settings, look for “Hide SSID” or “Disable SSID Broadcast”
- Your Wi-Fi won’t show up in the list of available networks
- To connect a new device, you’ll have to manually enter the network name and password