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How to find who is using your Wi-Fi
If your internet feels slow, or you just want peace of mind, it helps to see exactly which devices are connected to your Wi-Fi. Your router already keeps this list, and checking it takes about five minutes.
Step 1: Open your router’s admin page
On Windows, open a command prompt and run ipconfig. Find the line called Default Gateway. It is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. Type that address into your browser. The login details are often printed on a sticker on the router.
Step 2: Find the list of connected devices
Look for a section named Connected devices, DHCP clients, Device list or Wireless clients. You will see each device’s name, IP address and MAC address (a unique hardware ID).
Step 3: Work out which devices are yours
- Count your own phones, laptops, TVs, consoles and smart speakers.
- Switch Wi-Fi off on one device at a time and see which entry disappears.
- Some devices show only a code or a brand name. Search that name before assuming the worst.
If the number of devices is higher than you expected, something unknown may be connected.
Step 4: Remove unknown devices
- Change your Wi-Fi password to a long, unique one.
- Make sure security is set to WPA2 or WPA3, never WEP or open.
- Turn off WPS, a convenience feature that is easier to attack.
- Reconnect your own devices with the new password.
Keep it secure
- Change the router’s admin password from the default.
- Install router firmware updates when they are available.
- Put visitors and smart-home gadgets on a guest network.
Check the device list every few months, or any time your connection suddenly slows down.