How to See Who Is on Your Wi-Fi

Step 1: Check connected devices in your router

Log into your router admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). Navigate to the connected devices or DHCP client list — labelled 'Attached Devices', 'Client List', or 'Connected Devices' depending on your router brand. You will see a list of device names (hostnames), IP addresses, and MAC addresses.

Step 2: Identify unfamiliar devices

Match each device to something in your home: phones, laptops, smart TVs, tablets, gaming consoles, smart speakers, IoT devices (bulbs, cameras, thermostats). If a device hostname says 'Android-xyz', 'iPhone', or 'ESP8266', try to match it to a physical device. Unfamiliar devices are not necessarily intrusions — smart devices often use generic names.

Step 3: Use a network scanner app

For more detail, use a network scanner: Fing (iOS/Android) identifies device type, manufacturer, and open ports. Advanced IP Scanner (Windows) or Angry IP Scanner (macOS/Linux) scan all local IPs and show hostnames and MAC addresses. The MAC address prefix (first 6 hex digits) identifies the device manufacturer — look it up at macaddress.io.

Step 4: Remove and block unauthorised devices

If you find an unrecognised device: change your Wi-Fi password immediately — this disconnects all devices. Reconnect only your own devices. To block a specific device permanently: use MAC address filtering in your router's security settings. Add the unknown device's MAC to the block list. Note: MAC filtering alone is not sufficient security — a determined attacker can spoof a MAC address.

Step 5: Enable device notifications

Many modern routers (ASUS, Netgear Orbi, Eero) support new device notifications — they alert you via app when an unknown device joins. Enable this in the router's security or notifications settings. This provides ongoing visibility without checking manually.

Step 6: Harden your Wi-Fi password

Set a strong WPA2 or WPA3 password of 16+ characters — a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words and personal information. Consider enabling WPA3 if all your devices support it. Change the password periodically (every 6–12 months) and whenever you end a relationship with someone who knew it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my neighbour use my Wi-Fi without me knowing?

Yes — if your Wi-Fi password is weak or has been shared widely, a neighbour could connect. The router's client list will show their device. Change your password and enable WPA3 or strong WPA2 to prevent this.

Will changing my Wi-Fi password disconnect smart home devices?

Yes — all devices will need to be reconnected with the new password. For large smart home setups, update devices room by room. Most smart plugs, bulbs, and sensors have a reset process to reconnect to a new Wi-Fi network.

How often should I check who is on my Wi-Fi?

Monthly is sufficient for most households. Check immediately if you notice unexplained speed drops, if you suspect your password was shared without permission, or after a houseguest visit. Setting up new-device notifications in your router app is more convenient than manual checks.