# How to Detect Who’s Using Your Wi-Fi Connection
If your Wi-Fi feels slow, videos buffer frequently, or downloads take longer than usual — chances are, someone else might be using your Wi-Fi without permission.
Unauthorized users not only slow down your internet speed but can also pose security risks, such as accessing personal data or connected smart devices.

The [**good news**](https://techlurax.com/technology/best-phone-under-20000/2592/
) is, you don’t need to be a tech expert to find out who’s connected to your Wi-Fi. In this guide, we’ll explain how to detect devices using your Wi-Fi and secure your network easily.

**1. Why You Should Check Who’s Using Your Wi-Fi**

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand why this matters:

Slow internet speed: More devices = less bandwidth per device.

**[Data theft risk](https://techlurax.com/apps/91-club-login/2610/
):** Hackers can access unprotected devices on your network.

**Illegal activity:** Someone could use your Wi-Fi for downloads or online crimes.

**Extra data usage:** If you’re on a limited plan, your data may finish faster.

So, regular Wi-Fi checks are a must for security and performance.

**2. Check Connected Devices Using Your Router Settings**

The most accurate way to detect connected devices is through your router’s admin panel.

**Steps:**

Find your router’s IP address.

On Android: Go to Wi-Fi Settings → Tap on your network → Advanced.

On Windows: Open Command Prompt → Type ipconfig → Find “Default Gateway”.

Usually, it’s something like 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.

Open your browser and enter that IP address in the address bar.

Log in using your router username and password (check your router’s label if unsure).

Look for “Connected Devices,” “Device List,” or “Attached Devices” section.

You’ll now see a list of all devices currently connected to your Wi-Fi network — including phones, laptops, smart TVs, etc.

If you spot an unfamiliar device name or IP address, that’s a sign someone else is using your Wi-Fi.

**3. Use Mobile Apps to Identify Connected Devices**

If checking via router feels complicated, you can use free mobile apps that automatically detect who’s using your Wi-Fi.

Best Apps for Android and iPhone:

Fing – Network Tools

WiFiman (by Ubiquiti)

Who’s on My WiFi?

Net Analyzer

**How to use:**

Download any of the above apps.

Connect your phone to your Wi-Fi.

Launch the app and tap Scan Network.

It will show all connected devices with details like IP address, MAC address, and manufacturer name.

If you see a device you don’t recognize, it’s likely an unauthorized user.

**4. Identify Unknown Devices on Your Network**

Sometimes, the device names (like “android-2a7b123” or “unknown device”) are confusing. Here’s how to identify them:

Compare MAC addresses: Each device has a unique MAC address. You can find yours in:

Android: Settings → About Phone → Status → Wi-Fi MAC address

iPhone: Settings → General → About → Wi-Fi Address

Laptop: Command Prompt → ipconfig /all

Match your devices’ MAC addresses with the list in your router or Fing app.
Any address that doesn’t match your devices is likely someone else’s.

**5. Disconnect or Block Unknown Devices**

Once you identify unauthorized devices, you can kick them off your Wi-Fi right away.

Steps to Block Devices:

Go to your router’s admin page.

Open the Connected Devices / DHCP Clients section.

Select the suspicious device and click “Block” or “Deny Access.”

Some routers also allow you to create a MAC Address Filter to block specific devices permanently.

**6. Change Your Wi-Fi Password Immediately**

The most effective way to remove all unauthorized users is by changing your Wi-Fi password.

**How to do it:**

Log in to your router admin panel.

Go to Wireless Settings → Password / Security Key.

Create a new strong password (use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).

Save changes and reconnect your trusted devices only.

This will automatically disconnect everyone — including those freeloaders who had your old password.

**7. Enable WPA3 or WPA2 Security Mode**

If your Wi-Fi network is open or still using the old WEP encryption, it’s easy to hack.
Switch to WPA2 or WPA3 (if supported) for stronger protection.

**Steps:**

Open router settings → Wireless Security → Select WPA2-PSK or WPA3.

Avoid using “Open” or “WEP” security options.

**8. Hide Your Wi-Fi Network (Optional)**

You can also make your Wi-Fi invisible to others by hiding the SSID (network name).

**How to hide SSID:**

Log in to your router → Wireless Settings.

Uncheck “Broadcast SSID.”

Now, only devices that manually enter the network name and password can connect.

It adds an extra layer of privacy and discourages casual users from trying to connect.

**9. Keep Router Firmware Updated**

Router manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security bugs and improve performance.

**Tip:**

Visit your router brand’s official website (TP-Link, D-Link, Netgear, etc.).

Check for firmware updates and install them.

You can also find “Update” under the router’s settings.

Updated firmware helps prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities.

**10. Use Guest Wi-Fi for Visitors**

If friends or family often visit and need Wi-Fi access, use the Guest Network feature instead of sharing your main password.

**Why it helps:**

Keeps your main network safe.

Guests can use Wi-Fi without accessing personal devices.

You can set limits on speed or usage.

**To enable:**
Router Settings → Guest Network → Enable → Set a separate password.

**11. Monitor Network Activity Regularly**

Make it a habit to check your Wi-Fi connections every few weeks.
You don’t have to be tech-savvy — just:

Open your router panel or Fing app.

Review connected devices.

Look for unusual or new devices.

**12. Bonus Tip – Reduce Wi-Fi Range (Optional)**

If you live in an apartment or crowded area, your signal might reach nearby neighbors. You can limit your Wi-Fi range to prevent others from detecting it.

**How to reduce range:**

Lower transmission power in your router’s advanced wireless settings.

Keep your router away from windows or doors.

**Conclusion**

Detecting who’s using your Wi-Fi is simple once you know where to look.
By checking your router’s device list or using apps like Fing or WiFiman, you can easily find intruders.

**To stay protected:**

Change your password regularly.

Use WPA2/WPA3 encryption.

Keep firmware updated.

Use Guest Wi-Fi for others.

Taking these steps will ensure your Wi-Fi stays fast, secure, and private, giving you complete control over your network.