How to Identify Unknown Devices on Your Home Network

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

In this guide, you will learn:

• How to Identify and Secure Unknown Devices
  • STEP 1: Take Note of Your Device MAC Addresses
  • STEP 2: Check for Matches

Are you concerned about the security of your home network but not sure where to start? You're not alone. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of identifying and securing unknown devices connected to your network. And don't worry, we'll keep it jargon-free and easy to follow, even if you're not a tech expert.

How to Identify and Secure Unknown Devices

After running a Trend Micro Home Network Security scan, you might be surprised to see devices connected to your network that you cannot identify. Let's take a proactive approach to ensure your home network is as secure as it can be.

STEP 1: Take Note of Your Device MAC Addresses

Every device on your network has a unique identifier called a MAC address. You can find this address on your Android phone, iPhone, iPad, Windows PC, or Mac. Here's how:

On your Android phone or tablet

1. Tap the Settings app.
2. Tap About Phone or About Device.
3. Tap Status or Hardware Information.
4. Scroll down to see your Wi-Fi MAC address.

On your iPhone or iPad

1. Tap Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Tap About. The MAC address is listed as Wi-Fi Address.

On your Windows PC

1. Open your network settings:

   Open Wi-Fi Settings
   Open Ethernet Settings

2. Select your network connection.
3. Scroll down to see Physical Address (MAC).

On your Mac

1. Open System Preferences.
2. Click Network.
3. Under Preferred Networks, select the network connection you are using, then click Advanced. The MAC address is listed as Wi-Fi Address.

STEP 2: Check for Matches

Now, open the Trend Micro Home Network Security app and follow these steps:

1. Open the Trend Micro Home Network Security app.
2. Tap the Menu icon.
3. Select Devices and choose the device in question.
4. Look for the MAC ID in the app.
5. Check if it matches any of your devices' MAC addresses.

Trend Micro Recommends Removing Unknown Devices

To safeguard your home network:

• Scan your home network.
• Update your default Wi-Fi SSID.
• Strengthen your Wi-Fi password.
• Enable New Device Approval.
• Disable WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) through your router’s admin console.

Your home network security matters, and we're here to help you keep it safe and sound.

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.

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Your home network security matters, and we're here to help you keep it safe and sound.

Ask The Community!

Still unsure about which devices are connected to your network? Wondering whether you should keep them connected or disconnect them? Join our community discussion and get answers from experts and fellow users who have faced similar questions.

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