Have you noticed that your internet speed has suddenly dropped, or do you suspect that your D-Link Are other devices connecting? Checking the Wi-Fi client list is the first step to diagnosing the problem. Unlike routers from other brands, D-Link interface The process may vary depending on the model and firmware version, but the general principles remain the same. In this article, we'll cover all the current methods: from the classic web interface to hidden commands for experienced users.
It is important to understand that some methods (for example, through Telnet) require preliminary router configuration, and mobile apps may not support older models. We'll point out the limitations of each method so you don't waste time on useless steps. If your D-Link released before 2018, The probability of not having a web interface in Russian is ~30% — be prepared to manually change the language in the settings.
1. Checking via the router's web interface (the most reliable method)
The web control panel is a universal method that works on 99% of models D-Link, from budget DIR-300 to the flagship COVR-X1870The main advantage: it does not require installation of additional software and shows real connection time each device.
Instructions:
- Connect to the router's network (via Wi-Fi or cable).
- Open your browser and type in the address bar
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1If the IP has changed, check the sticker on the device body. - Enter your login and password (usually by default
admin/adminor an empty password field). - Go to the section
Status → Wi-Fi Clients(on new firmware versions it may be calledDevices → Connected Clients).
In the table you will see:
- 🔹 MAC address devices (unique identifier)
- 🔹 IP address on the local network
- 🔹 Hostname (if the device broadcasts one)
- 🔹 Connection type (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
- 🔹 Last activity time
2. Using the D-Link Wi-Fi mobile app
Official app D-Link Wi-Fi (available for Android And iOS) simplifies router management, but has limitations:
- 📱 Supports only models released after 2019 (see the app description for a full list of compatible devices).
- 📱 Doesn't show
MAC addressesin the free version (premium subscription required). - 📱 May not display devices connected via cable (Wi-Fi clients only).
How to use:
- Download the app from App Store or Google Play.
- Register an account D-Link (or log in using an existing one).
- Add your router via scanning
QR codeon a sticker or by hand. - Go to the tab
Devices— all connected gadgets will be displayed here.
⚠️ Attention: Appendix D-Link Wi-Fi may request access to your location and contacts. This is a security requirement for two-factor authentication, but you can deny access to contacts without losing functionality.
3. Telnet/SSH Commands for Advanced Users
If the web interface is unavailable (for example, due to a firmware failure) and the mobile app does not support your model, you are left with console accessThis method requires the inclusion of Telnet or SSH in the router settings and basic knowledge of the command line.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Turn on
Telnetin the web interface:System → Administration → Remote Management. - Connect via the program PuTTY (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) via router IP.
- Enter login/password (the same as for the web interface).
- Run the command to view the list of clients:
cat /tmp/dhcp.leasesor for new firmware:
iw dev wlan0 station dump
The result will look like this:
| MAC address | IP address | Host name | Rental time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1C:34:DA:87:2E:F9 | 192.168.0.101 | iPhone-X | 2026-05-15 14:30 |
| A4:83:E7:11:4A:22 | 192.168.0.103 | Samsung-TV | 2026-05-15 10:15 |
| 00:1A:79:8B:3C:D4 | 192.168.0.105 | unknown | 2026-05-15 08:45 |
What to do if Telnet doesn't connect?
Make sure the service is enabled in your router settings (System → Services → Telnet). If the router does not respond, try resetting it to factory settings using the button Reset (hold for 10 seconds).
4. Viewing the ARP cache list on a computer
This method does not require access to the router, but it shows all devices on the local network, including those connected via cable. Cons: Doesn't distinguish between Wi-Fi and wired clients.
Instructions for Windows:
- Open
Command line(Win + R → cmd). - Enter the command:
arp -a - In the list, find IP addresses from your network range (usually
192.168.0.xor192.168.1.x).
For macOS/Linux use:
arp -n | grep 192.168
To compare MAC addresses with device manufacturers, use services like MAC Vendors Lookup (The first 6 characters of MAC indicate the brand). For example, 1C:34:DA - This Apple, A A4:83:E7 — Samsung.
Make sure your computer is connected to the router's network|Run a command prompt as administrator|Write down your network's IP range|Check only active connections (lease expiration time)
-->
5. Special programs for network monitoring
If you need to not only see a list of devices but also monitor their activity, use third-party utilities. They are suitable for deep diagnostics, but may conflict with antiviruses.
Top 3 programs:
- 🖥️ Wireless Network Watcher (free, shows MAC, IP, manufacturer name).
- 🖥️ Angry IP Scanner (scans ports, detects open services).
- 🖥️ GlassWire (paid, visualizes traffic by device).
Sample report Wireless Network Watcher:
| № | IP address | MAC address | Manufacturer | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 192.168.0.101 | 1C:34:DA:... | Apple | Active |
| 2 | 192.168.0.102 | B8:27:EB:... | Raspberry Pi | Inactive |
| 3 | 192.168.0.104 | 78:31:C1:... | ASUSTek | Active |
⚠️ Attention: Programs like Angry IP Scanner may be blocked by corporate firewalls. If you use an office router, coordinate scanning with your IT department.
6. Alternative methods: guest Wi-Fi and log files
If the main methods don't work, try:
- 🔄 Enable guest network and move all your devices there. Clients remaining on the main network are potentially untrusted.
- 📜 View router log files (chapter
System → Logs). Look for entries likeAssociated: [MAC address]. - 🔒 Temporarily disable WPS - this closes one of the most vulnerable entry points for outside devices.
To analyze logs, use the keyword filter:
grep "Associated\|Disassociated" /var/log/messages
Comparison of methods: which one to choose?
Depending on your specific needs and router model, the optimal method may vary. Below is a comparison table:
| Method | Speed | Accuracy | Complexity | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Web interface | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | All D-Link models |
| Mobile application | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | Models after 2019 |
| Telnet/SSH | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Advanced users |
| ARP cache | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | Quick check without access to the router |
| Third-party programs | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Network and traffic diagnostics |
For most users web interface remains the best option—it doesn't require software installation and displays the most comprehensive information. If your router is older than 5 years, start with Telnet or ARP cache.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to see a list of connected devices without access to the router?
Yes, with the help of ARP cache (team arp -a) or programs like Wireless Network WatcherHowever, these methods will only show active devices on your local network and will not distinguish between Wi-Fi and wired connections.
Why do devices named "unknown" appear in the list?
This means that the device is not broadcasting its name (hostname) or uses random MAC address (privacy function in iOS/Android). To identify such a device, compare it MAC with the addresses of your gadgets (located in the network settings of each device).
How to block a foreign device on a D-Link network?
Go to the router's web interface in the section Wi-Fi → MAC Address Filter. Add MAC Blacklist the suspicious device and save the settings. Alternatively, you can change the Wi-Fi password—this will disconnect all clients except those you share the new password with.
Is it possible to find out what websites a connected device visits?
Routers D-Link Home series devices do not log traffic by default. This requires specialized firmware (for example, DD-WRT) or sniffer programs like WiresharkPlease note that traffic interception may violate privacy laws in your country.
Why is the list of devices different in the app and the web interface?
This is due to data caching. The mobile app may update information less frequently than the web panel. To sync the data, restart your router or refresh the page in your browser (Ctrl + F5).
If none of the methods worked, check if you have disabled DHCP server (chapter Network → LAN). Without it, the router won't track connected devices, and you'll have to assign IP addresses manually.