Have you noticed your internet has slowed down, and your data usage is unusually high? Perhaps unauthorized devices have connected to your Wi-Fi—neighbors, guests who forgot to disconnect, or even hackers exploiting router security vulnerabilities. In this article, we'll look into these possibilities. all ways to check connected devices: from built-in router functions to specialized programs for Windows, Android And iOS.
Some users mistakenly believe that simply changing the Wi-Fi password is enough to solve the problem. However, this doesn't always work: if the attacker has already connected, they can intercept traffic even after changing the password, if the router uses outdated encryption protocols (for example, WEP instead of WPA3). Therefore, it is important not only to identify "extra" devices, but also to configure the network correctly.
We've tested over 15 tools and selected the best solutions for a variety of situations: from simple mobile apps to professional network scanners. You'll also learn how to block other people's devices and protect your Wi-Fi from repeated intrusions.
1. How to check connected devices via the router's web interface
The most reliable way is to use the router's control panel. This method works on all models (from budget TP-Link TL-WR840N to the flagship ASUS RT-AX88U) and doesn't require any additional software. The only thing you need is your router's IP address and login information.
To open the web interface:
- 🌐 Enter one of the standard IP addresses in your browser's address bar:
192.168.0.1,192.168.1.1or192.168.8.1(depending on the model). - 🔑 Enter your login and password (by default it is often
admin/admin, but may differ - look at the router sticker). - 📊 Find the section with connected devices. It's usually called:
DHCP Clients List(at TP-Link),Attached Devices(at Netgear),Local Network → LAN(at ASUS).
In this section, you'll see a table with all the gadgets currently using your Wi-Fi. Note the columns:
- 📱 Host Name — the name of the device (for example,
iPhone-12-ProorSamsung-Galaxy-S22). - 🔢 IP Address — local IP (for example,
192.168.1.103). - 🔗 MAC Address — a unique physical address (example:
00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E).
⚠️ Attention: If the list contains devices with unknown names (for example,android-123456orUnknown Device), this is a cause for concern. But sometimes legitimate gadgets may appear without a name—check them by MAC address.
2. TOP 5 Windows programs to see who is connected to Wi-Fi
If you find it difficult to access your router settings or want to get more information about your connected devices (for example, their performance or activity history), use specialized software. We've selected 5 Best Programs for Windows, which scan the network and show all active gadgets.
| Program | Peculiarities | Free version | Link to the website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wireless Network Watcher | Scans the network in real time, displays MAC and IP, exports reports to CSV | Yes | nirsoft.net |
| Advanced IP Scanner | Identifies device manufacturer by MAC, pings gadgets, integrates with Radmin | Yes | advanced-ip-scanner.com |
| Angry IP Scanner | Cross-platform, supports plugins, and scans ports. | Yes | angryip.org |
| SoftPerfect WiFi Guard | Compares current devices with a whitelist and sends notifications about new connections | Shareware | softperfect.com |
| GlassWire | Monitors traffic by device, blocks suspicious IPs, and visualizes data | Yes (with limitations) | glasswire.com |
Let's take a closer look at the two most popular utilities:
Wireless Network Watcher from NirSoft — the simplest program for beginners. Once launched, it automatically scans the network and displays a list of all connected devices, including:
- 🔤 Network Adapter Company — network card manufacturer (for example, Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi).
- ⏱ First Detection Time - when the device first appeared online.
- 🔄 Detection Count - how many times it was discovered.
Advanced IP Scanner Suitable for experienced users. In addition to standard scanning, it allows you to:
- 🖥 Remotely manage computers on the network (via Radmin).
- 📡 View shared resources (folders, printers).
- 📥 Export results to XML/CSV.
Check your MAC address using online databases (e.g. MAC Vendors)
Disable the device through the router control panel (use the "Block" or "Kick" function)
Change your Wi-Fi password to a more complex one (at least 12 characters)
Update your router firmware to the latest version
Enable MAC address filtering (if supported)
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3. Mobile applications for Android and iOS
If you need to check your network from your smartphone, use mobile apps. They lack the functionality of their desktop counterparts, but are convenient for quick diagnostics. The main advantage is that you don't need a cable connection to the router.
Best apps for Android And iOS:
- 📱 Fing — scans the network, identifies open ports, and tests internet speed. It also has a "Device Inspector" feature that reveals vulnerabilities.
- 🛡 NetScan — analyzes traffic by device, creates network usage graphs, and supports notifications about new connections.
- 🔍 Network Analyzer — shows detailed information about each gadget, including its location on the local network.
- 📊 WiFi Thief Detector — specializes in finding traffic "thieves" and compares current devices with a saved "white list."
Example of working with Fing:
- Download the app from Google Play or App Store.
- Start a network scan (Scan button).
- Browse the list of devices. Click on an unknown one—the app will display its MAC address, manufacturer, and open ports.
- To block a device, go to the router settings (Fing provides a direct link to the web interface).
⚠️ Attention: Mobile apps may not display all devices on the network if they are in sleep mode or using a static IP. For accurate analysis, it's best to combine them with desktop utilities.
4. How to block other people's devices in a router
Found a suspicious device? There are several ways to block it:
Method 1: Via the router's web interface
- Open your router's control panel (see Section 1).
- Find the section with connected devices (for example,
DHCP Clients List). - Select the unknown device and click
Block,KickorDisconnect. - Save changes (button
SaveorApply).
Method 2: Filtering by MAC address
This method is more reliable, as it blocks the device at the router level, even if it changes its IP address. Instructions for TP-Link:
- Go to
Wireless → Wireless MAC Filtering. - Select mode
Deny(to prohibit). - Add the MAC address of the suspicious device (eg.
00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E). - Save the settings.
Method 3: Change your Wi-Fi password
If you're unsure which device is the extra one, it's easier to change the network password:
- In the router panel, go to
Wireless → Wireless Security. - In the field
PasswordEnter a new password (we recommend usingWPA3-Personal). - Save your changes. All devices will be disconnected and will need to reconnect.
What to do if the blocking does not work?
If a blocked device continues to connect, it may be:
1. It uses a static IP - check the DHCP settings in your router.
2. There is a second router in the network in repeater mode, to which other gadgets are connected.
3. The device connects via WPS (disable this function in the router settings).
5. How to protect Wi-Fi from hacking and unauthorized connections
Even after blocking other people's devices, it is important eliminate vulnerabilities, which could be exploited by attackers. Here are the key security measures:
1. Update your router firmware
Outdated software versions contain critical vulnerabilities. For example, in 2023, a vulnerability was discovered in routers. D-Link DIR-825, allowing you to connect to the network without a password. A firmware update closes such holes.
2. Disable WPS
Function Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) It simplifies connecting devices, but it's easy to hack by brute-forcing the PIN code. Disable it in your router settings (Advanced → WPS).
3. Enable guest network for temporary users
If you frequently have guests, create a separate guest network with limited access to local resources. This will ensure your main network remains secure.
4. Use WPA3 instead of WPA2
Protocol WPA3 more difficult to hack due to individual device authorization (Simultaneous Authentication of Equals, SAE). If your router supports WPA3, be sure to activate it.
5. Configure the firewall on your router
In modern routers (for example, ASUS RT-AX86U or Keenetic) There is a built-in firewall. Enable filtering of incoming connections and blocking of attacks like DoS.
6. Common Mistakes When Checking Wi-Fi Devices
Many users make mistakes that lead to false positives or, conversely, missed real threats. Let's look at the most common ones:
Mistake 1: Ignoring sleeping devices
Some devices (such as smartphones or laptops in sleep mode) may not appear in the list of connected devices, but still occupy an IP address. To detect them, use the command in CMD:
arp -aIt will show all IP and MAC addresses even if the devices are inactive.
Mistake 2: Trusting "familiar" device names
Attackers can spoof the device name (for example, call it iPhone-13-Pro) so you don't block it. Always check MAC address through the manufacturers' databases (for example, on the website MAC Vendors).
Mistake 3: Using outdated programs
Some utilities (eg. WirelessNetView from 2015) do not support modern protocols and may not show devices on Wi-Fi 6Always download the latest versions of software.
Error 4: Only checking 2.4 GHz, ignoring 5 GHz
If your router operates on two bands, scan both. Some devices (such as smart bulbs) only connect to 2.4 GHz, and laptops - to 5 GHz.
⚠️ Attention: If you are using a Mesh system (eg. Google Nest WiFi or TP-Link Deco), check connected devices through the system's main app, not through the router's web interface. In mesh networks, devices can "jump" between nodes, making them difficult to track using standard methods.
7. Alternative methods: command line and Linux
For experienced users, there are more flexible methods of network testing without graphical interfaces.
Method 1: Windows Command Prompt (CMD)
Open CMD as administrator and run:
netsh wlan show hostednetwork settings=securityThis command will show current connections to your network. To see all devices on your local network, use:
arp -a | findstr "dynamic"Method 2: Linux/macOS Terminal
IN Linux or macOS execute:
sudo nmap -sn 192.168.1.0/24This command will scan all IP addresses in the subnet. 192.168.1.0/24 and will show active hosts. For detailed analysis, use:
sudo nmap -O -sV 192.168.1.100(replace 192.168.1.100 to the IP of the suspicious device).
Method 3: Monitoring traffic with Wireshark
Wireshark — a professional packet analyzer. It will show not only connected devices but also their activity (which websites they visit, what data they transmit). This tool is complex for beginners, but it is indispensable for in-depth diagnostics.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about checking Wi-Fi devices
Is it possible to find out what websites a connected device visits?
Yes, but this requires special tools:
- 🖥 On your computer: use Wireshark or GlassWire.
- 📱 On the router: some models (for example, ASUS with firmware Asuswrt-Merlin) support traffic logging.
Please note: Traffic interception may violate privacy laws if you analyze other people's devices without consent.
Why do unknown gadgets with names like "Android-XXXX" appear in the list of connected devices?
These could be:
- 📱 Guest devices that were previously connected and did not disconnect correctly.
- 🤖 Smart devices (lamps, sockets, vacuum cleaners) that automatically connect to Wi-Fi.
- 🕵️♂️ Attackers using standard names to disguise themselves.
Check the MAC address through the database MAC Vendors - if the manufacturer Unknown, this is a reason to be wary.
How can I check if someone is stealing my Wi-Fi if my speed drops at night?
It's likely that strangers are using your internet while you sleep. To confirm this:
- Install GlassWire or NetWorx to the computer.
- Set up traffic monitoring at night.
- Check the report in the morning - if there was traffic even though you weren't using the internet, the problem is confirmed.
Also check your router for unknown devices at night.
Is it possible to track the physical location of a device connected to my Wi-Fi?
The exact location cannot be determined, but the distance can be roughly estimated:
- 📶 In mobile applications (for example, Fing) there is a function
Signal Strength— the weaker the signal (for example,-80 dBm), the further the device. - 📡 In desktop utilities (for example, inSSIDer) you can build a heat map of the network.
If the signal is very weak (for example, -90 dBm), the device may be located outside your apartment (at your neighbors’).
What should I do if my router doesn't show connected devices?
Possible causes and solutions:
- 🔄 The router is overloaded: reboot it (turn off the power for 30 seconds).
- 🛠 Outdated firmware: Update the software via the web interface.
- 🔌 DHCP is disabled: Check if the DHCP server is enabled in the settings (
LAN → DHCP Server). - 📵 Devices are connected to another router: If you have a Mesh system, check all nodes.