On September 16, 2020 Apple released the latest version iOS 14 and iPadOS 14. These new versions include important changes that could affect your experience when using the Home Network Security app: Private WiFi Addresses and Local Network Access Permission.
Private Wi-Fi Addresses
In order to protect user privacy and make it harder for third parties to track users across networks, iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 will generate a random MAC address for each different WiFi network an iPhone or iPad connects to.
How does this affect my Home Network Security experience?
Based on our testing, some devices that have already been identified by Home Network Security may be identified as a new device. Additionally, in a small number of cases, Home Network Security may not be able to identify iPhones or iPads correctly due to this change.
Can I do anything?
The Private Address feature can be turned off for your home network to ensure the best identification result. Since this setting is configurable by network, you can turn this setting off for your Home Network Security-protected network only while keeping it on for other networks, maximizing your device’s privacy outside your home network. Learn more.
Local Network Access Permission
iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 allows users to choose whether an app can access the local network through a permission popup. Home Network Security needs local network access during the initial pairing process and when troubleshooting networking settings. While using the Home Network Security app from your iPhone or iPad, you may see a popup asking for permission for Home Network Security to find and connect to devices on your network.
How does this affect my Home Network Security experience?
If Local Network access is not enabled, the pairing process or troubleshooting could be restricted or non-functional.
Can I do anything?
When you see the popup, allow Local Network access permission for the Home Network Security app in order to ensure successful pairing and network troubleshooting. Otherwise, you can find the setting in the Settings app > Home Network Security > Local Network. Learn more.
The Home Network Security team continues to work to protect your data and privacy, adapting as your digital environment changes. If you encounter any issues with Home Network Security, our Support team is ready to help by phone, email or chat. Click here for more information.