Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
In this guide, you will learn:
- How to Check MAC and IP Addresses on Devices
- How to Identify Unknown Devices
- How to Remove Unknown Devices
- Helpful Tips and Tricks for Network Security
Discovering unknown devices on your home network can be concerning. This guide will help you identify and manage these devices, ensuring your Wi-Fi remains secure.
How to Check MAC and IP Addresses on Devices
Before identifying unknown devices, you need to know the MAC and IP addresses of your own devices. Here's how:
- On iPhone and iPad: Go to Settings > General > About for the MAC address, and Settings > Wi-Fi, then tap the i icon next to your network for the IP address.
- On Android phones and tablets: Go to Settings > About Phone/Tablet > Status for the MAC address, and Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, then tap your network for the IP address.
- On Windows PCs: Open Command Prompt, type ipconfig /all, and press ENTER. Look for "Physical Address" for the MAC address and "IPv4 Address" for the IP address.
- On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Network, select your network, then click Advanced. The MAC address is in the Hardware tab, and the IP address is listed in the network's status area.
How to Identify Unknown Devices
- Access your router's admin page via a web browser, usually by typing in the router's IP address.
- Log in with the admin credentials, which you can find in the router's manual or on the device itself if you haven't changed them.
- Look for a section like Attached Devices, Device List, or DHCP Client List.
- Here you will see a list of devices with details such as device name, MAC address, and IP address.
- Compare the list with the devices you know to identify any that don't belong.
How to Remove Unknown Devices
- Change your Wi-Fi password immediately to something strong and unique.
- Disable features like WPS that allow devices to connect easily but are less secure.
- Enable MAC address filtering, allowing only recognized devices to connect.
- Regularly update your router's firmware for the latest security features and fixes.
Helpful Tips and Tricks for Network Security
- Regularly scan your home network for unknown devices.
- Update your default Wi-Fi SSID to something unique.
- Strengthen your Wi-Fi password.
- Enable New Device Approval on your network.
- Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) through your routerβs admin console.
MASTER THE ART OF NETWORK CARE!
Delve more information about online privacy, network and device optimization at our Cybersecurity Learning Center. Stay secure, informed, and productive in the digital world.
Visit our Cybersecurity Learning Center!
