Who's Connected to My Wi-Fi: How to Check and Block Other People's Devices

Compare the list with your devices. Unknown devices can be blocked directly in the app (if supported) or through the router settings.

Enter your login and password (usually by default admin/admin or admin/password). If it doesn’t work, reset the router settings using the button Reset.

Go to the section Wireless network (or Wireless), then - Client list (Connected Devices, DHCP Clients).

You will see a table with devices, where the following will be indicated:

• 🖥️ Host name (device name);
• 🔢 IP and MAC addresses;
• ⏱️ Connection time.

• To block a device, find it in the list and click Block or BlockSome routers allow you to permanently blacklist a MAC address.

On some routers (for example, Keenetic) there is a function Guest networkIf you don't want to completely block the device, but you're also not ready to trust it, move it to a guest network with limited access to local resources (such as printers or network drives).

What to do if you find someone else's device

Found an unknown gadget online? Follow these steps:

1. Make sure it is not your device. Check the MAC addresses of all your devices (they can be found in the network settings on your smartphone, laptop, or TV). For example, on Android path: Settings → About phone → General information → Wi-Fi MAC address.

2. Try to identify the device by manufacturer. The first 3 pairs of characters of the MAC address indicate the brand. For example:

   • 00:1A:79 — Samsung;
   • 3C:5A:B4 — Google (including Nest, Chromecast);
   • B8:27:EB — Raspberry Pi.

A complete list of manufacturers can be found on the website MAC Vendors.

Lock your device. This can be done:

• 📱 Via the app (if supported);
• 🖥️ Through the router settings (section MAC address filtering);
• 🔄 By changing your Wi-Fi password (the most secure method).

• Check your network for vulnerabilities. Use services like Shodan or GRC ShieldsUPto ensure that your router is not open to attacks from outside.

⚠️ Attention: If someone else's device reappears on the network after being blocked, it could mean your Wi-Fi has been hacked. In this case:

• Reset your router to factory settings;
• Update firmware;
• Set a complex password (at least 12 characters with numbers and special characters);
• Disable the feature WPS (It is often used for hacking).

How to protect your Wi-Fi from unauthorized connections

The best way to deal with unwanted connections is preventionHere are proven methods of protection:

• 🔒 Complex password. Use a combination of letters (in different cases), numbers, and symbols. Example: kT7#pL9@mN2!Avoid obvious options like birth dates or names.
• 🔄 Regularly change your password. Change it every 3-6 months, especially if guests have connected to the network.
• 📡 Disabling WPS. This feature simplifies connecting devices, but it also makes things easier for hackers. In your router settings, find WPS and deactivate it.
• 🛡️ MAC address filtering. In the router settings, you can specify which devices have the right to connect to the network (section MAC Filter). Cons: You'll have to add each new gadget manually.
• 🌐 Guest network. If you frequently have guests over, create a separate network with restricted access. This will prevent them from connecting to your main devices.
• 🔄 Firmware update. Manufacturers regularly release patches for vulnerabilities. Check for updates every 1-2 months.

Additionally, you can use VPN for a router (For example, NordVPN or ExpressVPN). This not only encrypts your traffic but also hides the real IP addresses of devices on the network, making it more difficult for potential attackers.

Common Mistakes and Myths About Wi-Fi Testing

When working with apps and router settings, users often encounter confusion or misunderstandings. Let's look at the most common ones:

• 🤖 "The app shows 20 devices - I've been hacked!"
  

  In fact, many modern gadgets (for example, smart TVs or smart speakers) create multiple connections simultaneously. The list may also display neighboring devices if their networks operate on the same channel.

• 🔄 "I changed the password and the other person's device disappeared—problem solved."
  

  Not always. Some viruses (for example, Mirai) can be saved in the router firmware and reconnected. After changing the password, be sure to reboot the router and check the list of devices after 10-15 minutes.

• 📵 "If you disable the SSID, the network will become invisible and protected."
  

  This is a myth. Hiding the network name (SSID) does not prevent experienced hackers from finding it using specialized programs (for example, Kismet or Airodump-ng). Moreover, this creates inconvenience for legitimate users.

• 🔒 "WPA2 is sufficient for protection."
  

  Although WPA2 considered safe, it has vulnerabilities (eg KRACK attack). If your router supports WPA3, be sure to turn it on.

Another common misconception: "If the speed doesn't drop, then there are no foreign devices." In fact, many botnets (for example, Mirai or Mozi) use infected devices for DDoS attacks or cryptocurrency mining without significantly impacting the network. Therefore, connections should be checked regularly, even if there are no obvious problems.

FAQ: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions