A modern home network connects a wide range of gadgets, from smartphones and laptops to smart light bulbs and TVs. Control over connected devices is becoming critical for ensuring the security and stability of your internet connection. If you've noticed a drop in speed or simply want to know who's using your Wi-Fi, Zyxel routers (especially the Keenetic line) provide powerful tools.
In this article, we'll explore where to find detailed information about clients, how to distinguish your devices from others, and what steps to take if unauthorized access is detected. Management interfaces may differ depending on the firmware, but the operating logic remains similar for most models.
Knowing how to browse list of active clients, allows you not only to identify freeloaders but also to properly prioritize traffic for gaming or work. Let's start with the basic methods for logging into the admin panel.
Logging into the Zyxel router web interface
The first step to network monitoring is logging into the router's management system. To do this, connect your computer or smartphone to the Zyxel router via Wi-Fi or a LAN cable. Open any browser and enter the device's IP address in the address bar. The default IP address is most often 192.168.1.1 or domain name my.keenetic.net.
After navigating to the address, the system will ask for your username and password. If you haven't changed these details before, try the default pair: login admin and leave the password field empty (or also admin). However, for the purposes of network security, it is strongly recommended to set a unique password immediately after the first setup of the equipment.
In some cases, access to the interface may be restricted by settings from your provider or previous owner of the equipment. If the default credentials aren't suitable, a full factory reset may be required. This will restore access but will delete all your personal configurations.
⚠️ Attention: If you have changed your router's IP address before and have forgotten it, try looking for it in your computer's network adapter settings as the "Default Gateway."
Where can I find the client list in the new firmware (NDMS v3)?
Modern Zyxel Keenetic models run the NDMS operating system version 3.0 or higher. The interface is designed with user-friendly widgets. After successfully logging in, you'll be taken to the main page, which displays a summary of the system's status.
To view a list of connected devices, find the widget called "Client List" or "My Networks and Wi-Fi." In newer firmware versions, this section is often located in the left-hand menu with an icon resembling a network or computers. Clicking on it will display a table with all active connections.
Not only wireless clients are displayed here, but also devices connected via cable. The system automatically groups them by interface (Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, Wi-Fi 5 GHz, LAN). You can see MAC address, IP address, hostname (if the device sends one) and activity time.
It's important to note that the interface can offer additional filters. You can sort devices by connection type or status. This is especially convenient for large networks with dozens of devices.
Viewing connections in the classic interface (NDMS v2)
If you're using an earlier generation Zyxel router or haven't updated the firmware, you may encounter the NDMS version 2 interface. In this version, the menu structure is slightly different, but the functionality remains accessible. Go to the "Home Network" section in the top or side menu.
Within this section, select the "Client List" tab. This displays a table containing all the necessary information. Unlike newer versions, there may be no graphical widgets, but the data is presented in a more dense, tabular format, making it convenient for quick scanning.
Pay attention to the "Interface" column. It will show which port or wireless access point the device is using to connect to the network. This helps you understand why speed may be limited: for example, if someone is connected via an older standard. 802.11g, it can slow down the entire network.
Why do some devices not have a name?
The hostname is transmitted by the device itself via DHCP or NetBIOS. If the device (such as a smart plug or an old phone) doesn't transmit its name, the router displays only the MAC address or marks it as Unknown.
For a detailed analysis, you can click on a specific device to see more detailed statistics, if this option is available in your software version. Static IP address binding is often also available here.
Analysis of the active devices table
Understanding the columns in the client table helps you manage your network effectively. Below is a breakdown of the main parameters you'll see in the list of connected devices.
| Parameter | Description | Why is it needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Host Name | Device name (e.g. iPhone-Ivan, Samsung-TV) | To quickly identify the gadget owner |
| IP address | Internal network address (e.g. 192.168.1.45) | To configure access to a device or port forwarding |
| MAC address | Unique physical address of the network card | To filter and create permanent access rules |
| Interface | Connection type (Wi-Fi 2.4, Wi-Fi 5, LAN) | To diagnose signal speed and quality |
| Activity time | How long has the device been online? | To detect suspicious connections in your absence |
By analyzing this data, you can spot anomalies. For example, if a device you don't recognize is listed, or if the device's activity times coincide with a time when you were away from home. MAC filtering — is a powerful tool that allows you to allow access only to known devices.
Some routers allow you to assign custom names to devices directly in the interface. This is a good habit to get into: rename "Unknown-123" to "Office Laptop" so you don't have to guess what the device is in the future.
Using the My.Keenetic mobile app
For owners of Keenetic routers (Zyxel brand for the home segment), there is a convenient mobile application My.KeeneticIt allows you to manage your network directly from your smartphone, anywhere in the world with internet access. This eliminates the need to open a browser and enter IP addresses.
The "Devices" section in the app displays all connected devices in a clear list with icons indicating device types (phone, PC, TV). With one click, you can disconnect an unknown user from Wi-Fi or restrict their internet access while maintaining access to the local network.
The app also notifies you of new connections. If a new device tries to connect to your network, you'll receive a push notification (if the feature is enabled). This is one of the most effective ways security monitoring in real time.
⚠️ Attention: The mobile app requires the router to be registered with the KeenDNS cloud service and have an active internet connection for remote management. The app works locally via Wi-Fi and without an internet connection.
Block unwanted devices and protect your network
If you detect a rogue device, you must block it immediately. In the web interface, you can do this by finding the device in the client list and clicking the "Block" button or by checking the box in the "Access" column. After doing so, the device will lose connection to the router.
However, simply blocking your Wi-Fi is a temporary measure. If an attacker knows your Wi-Fi password, they will be able to reconnect. Therefore, the first step is to change password On a wireless network. It is recommended to use a complex password using mixed-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
An additional security measure is enabling a guest network. Guest Wi-Fi isolates guests from your primary devices (computers, NAS, printers). Even if someone gains access to the guest network, they won't be able to access your personal infrastructure.
☑️ Actions upon detection of an intruder
It's also worth disabling the WPS function, as it's often a weak point through which someone can guess the PIN code and gain access to the network even without knowing the main password.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does the device list show "Unknown Device"?
This happens when a device doesn't transmit its hostname when connecting via DHCP. This is often the case with IoT devices (smart bulbs, plugs) or devices with stripped-down operating systems. Use the MAC address and manufacturer as a guide; the first six characters of the address can be checked in online databases.
Is it possible to find out what websites a connected device visits?
The standard Zyxel/Keenetic interface doesn't offer this feature. The router only sees the connection status and traffic volume. Viewing browsing history requires third-party solutions, DNS filters, or specialized parental control software.
What should I do if I forgot my router password and can't log in?
The only solution is to perform a factory reset. With the router turned on, locate the reset button and press it with a paperclip for 10-15 seconds until the lights flash. The router will return to factory settings, and you'll be able to log in with the default password.
Does the number of connected devices affect internet speed?
Yes, it does. Each active device shares the channel's bandwidth. Furthermore, the router has a limit on the number of simultaneous connections (NAT table size). If there are too many devices, the router may slow down or even drop connections.