Slow internet speeds and constant network lags are often a cause for concern for users. In most cases, the cause isn't a technical fault with your equipment, but rather unauthorized use of your network by unauthorized individuals. If you haven't changed your router password since installing it, or it's too simple, your neighbors may be actively using your data, downloading files, and watching high-definition videos.
Checking the list of connected clients is the first step to take when diagnosing connection speed issues. Operator Dom.ru Provides subscribers with modern devices that allow them to easily monitor their network activity. Knowing the exact number of devices connected to the network allows you to decide whether to change the security key or restrict access for specific users.
There are several monitoring methods, each with its own features and level of detail. You can use the router's standard web interface, dedicated mobile apps from the equipment manufacturer, or universal network scanning utilities. It's important to understand that methods may vary depending on your device model, whether it's ZTE, Eltex or Keenetic.
Symptoms of unauthorized network access
Before delving into the technical details of setup, it's worth analyzing the indirect signs that indicate the presence of "extra" devices on your local network. Users often notice the problem only when speeds drop to critical levels, but there are also earlier warning signs. One of the main indicators is an unstable wireless connection, when the router's lights flash wildly even when you're not downloading anything.
You should also pay attention to any unusual behavior on your own devices. If video on your TV is constantly buffering, or browser pages are loading jerkily, this could indicate that your connection is overloaded with external traffic. It's especially suspicious if such problems occur at night or during times when everyone in the family is out of the house.
⚠️ Warning: If your network activity lights are constantly on or flashing when all your devices are turned off, it's almost a guaranteed sign that someone is using your internet.
Another symptom may be the inability to connect to your router through the admin panel. If the security system prevents you from accessing the settings, it's possible the attacker has already changed the administrator password. In this situation, a full reset of the device to factory settings is required.
Using the router's web interface to check
The most reliable and informative monitoring method is to access the router's control panel via a browser. This method doesn't require installing any additional software and works on any device connected to the network, whether a computer or smartphone. First, you need to find the gateway's IP address, which is usually found on a sticker on the bottom of the device or in the documentation.
After entering the address in the browser address bar (most often this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) the system will ask for login and password. By default for the equipment Dom.ru This information is often also located on the label, but if you've changed it, use your own information. In the router interface the number of active clients is displayed in real time, which allows you to see even those devices that are currently transmitting data.
Depending on your hardware model, the path to the client list may have different names. In the interfaces ZTE look for the "Status" or "Device Info" section, Eltex This could be the "LAN" or "Wireless" tab. There, you'll see a table containing MAC addresses, IP addresses, and sometimes the names of connected devices. Compare this list with your existing devices.
What should I do if the router interface is in English?
Use your browser's built-in translator (such as Google Translate) to automatically translate the page, or use an online dictionary for key terms: Status, Connected Devices, Wireless.
Checking via the My Dom.ru mobile app
Modern providers strive to simplify the interaction of subscribers with services as much as possible, and Dom.ru My Dom.ru is no exception. The official mobile app "My Dom.ru" provides a convenient tool for managing your home network directly from your phone. This is especially useful for those who don't want to navigate the complex technical settings of a web interface.
After logging into the app using your contract number or phone number, you'll have access to the internet management section. Modern versions of the personal account often include a "Wi-Fi Management" feature, which visually displays all active sessions. You can see not only the number of devices but also the amount of traffic consumed by each.
The advantage of using the official app is the ability to react instantly. If you detect an unfamiliar device, you can immediately block its access or change the Wi-Fi password in one click, without having to go into the router settings. This action will take effect immediately, disconnecting the intruder from the network.
Analyzing the list of connected devices by MAC addresses
Once you've received a list of connected clients, you'll see a table with technical data. The most important parameter here is MAC address — a unique network interface identifier assigned by the manufacturer. It's what distinguishes your smartphone from your neighbor's laptop, even if the devices don't have names.
For accurate identification, it's recommended to write down the MAC addresses of all your home devices in advance. You can find them in your phone's settings (under "About Phone" or "Status") or on stickers on the inside of laptops and TVs. By comparing the addresses listed on your router with your own list, you can easily identify unauthorized devices.
The table below shows examples of what the data in a customer list might look like:
| Device | MAC address (example) | Connection type | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 | A4:5E:60:C2:11:22 | Wi-Fi 5 GHz | Active |
| Smart TV Samsung | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz | Active | |
| ASUS laptop | B8:27:EB:44:55:66 | LAN (Cable) | Active |
| Unknown | CC:DD:EE:11:22:33 | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz | Suspicious |
Please note that some devices may hide their real name and appear as "Unknown" or "Android." In this case, rely solely on the first six characters of the MAC address (OUI), which identify the network card manufacturer.
Using third-party snails to scan the network
If access to your router settings is blocked or you want to conduct a more in-depth network analysis, you can use specialized software. Scanner programs allow you to see all devices on your local network, even if they are hidden in the router interface or have the discovery feature disabled.
One of the most popular and functional utilities is Advanced IP Scanner for Windows. It scans a range of addresses and provides complete information about each active node. There are similar programs for mobile devices, for example, Fing, which is available on Android and iOS and shows detailed information about the device manufacturer and open ports.
☑️ Network security check
Using such programs offers another advantage: they can show devices that are in sleep mode but not completely disconnected from the network. This helps identify "sleeping" connections that formally occupy a slot in the DHCP table but are not currently consuming traffic.
Protective measures and blocking of outsiders
Detecting a foreign device is a signal for immediate action. The simplest, but not always effective, method is to block it by MAC address in the router settings. However, an experienced user can bypass this restriction by simply changing the MAC address on their adapter. Therefore, the only reliable measure is to change the wireless network password.
Changing your password will disable all your devices, and you'll need to reconnect them using the new key. Make sure you choose a strong password that includes mixed-case letters, numbers, and special characters. It must be at least 12 characters long.
⚠️ Important: After changing your Wi-Fi password, be sure to also change the password for accessing the router settings (admin panel) so that no one can revert to the old settings.
It is also recommended to disable the function WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), as it often contains vulnerabilities that allow someone to guess the network password without having to crack it directly. In the router interface, this option is usually found in the wireless security section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a router show false connections?
Yes, sometimes the list may show virtual adapters, network printers, or smart home devices (light bulbs, sockets) that the user forgets to include. Also, some antivirus programs create virtual network interfaces. Always double-check the device manufacturer using the MAC address.
What should I do if I can't access my router settings?
If the default login and password don't work, they may have been changed previously. In this case, the only solution is to reset the router to factory settings using the reset button. Reset on the case. After this, the device will be accessible using the data from the sticker, but you will have to re-enter your internet settings.
Does having a neighbor connected affect online gaming speed?
Absolutely. Even if your neighbor is simply browsing social media, they're putting a strain on your connection and increasing your ping (latency). If they're downloading files or watching 4K videos, the game will become unplayable due to packet loss and lag.
How often should I change my Wi-Fi password?
For security purposes, it's recommended to change your password at least every six months, as well as any time you have multiple visitors to whom you've shared your password. This minimizes the risk of your password being saved on other people's devices.