How to tell who's connecting to your wifi without permission

1. Access your router's settings

To see who's connected to your network, you first need to access your router's panel. Type your gateway address into your browser's address bar, usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. The admin username and password are usually printed on a sticker on the bottom or back of the router itself.

2. Find the "Connected devices" section

Inside the router's panel, look for a section usually called "Connected devices", "Wifi client list" or something similar, depending on the brand. There you'll see a list with the name and address of every device currently using your network.

3. Compare the list with your own devices

Check the list and compare it with the devices you know you have at home: phones, computers, the smart TV, smart speakers and any other connected gadget. If you see a name you don't recognize, it might be a device that connected without your permission.

4. Change your wifi password immediately

If you find an unknown device, change your wifi password as soon as possible from the router's settings. This will instantly disconnect any unauthorized device, which will need the new password to get back in.

5. Use an app like Fing to scan your network

If you prefer a more visual and simple way to check from your phone, free apps like Fing scan your network and show you every connected device, with its name, manufacturer and address, without needing to go into the router's panel.

6. Turn on WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on your router

Make sure your network uses WPA2 encryption or, if your router supports it, WPA3. Never leave your network open or using WEP encryption, since it's an old, insecure system that can be bypassed easily.

Important: also check from time to time that your router's firmware is up to date, since updates usually fix security flaws that could make it easier for someone to access your network.

Frequently asked questions

How do I access my router's settings?

Type your gateway address into your browser's address bar, usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, and enter the admin username and password, which are usually printed on a sticker on the router itself.

What do I do if I find an unknown device connected?

Change your wifi password immediately from the router's settings, and if the problem persists, contact your provider to check the security of your connection.

Is it enough to just change the wifi password?

In most cases yes, as long as you use a long password and don't share it insecurely. It's also a good idea to check that the encryption is WPA2 or WPA3 and to keep the router's firmware up to date.