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 router’s admin console.
MASTER THE ART OF NETWORK CARE!
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