The security of your home WiFi network It's an aspect that shouldn't be taken lightly. Although wireless technologies have advanced a lot and encryption protocols are increasingly robust, the risks and possibilities of third-party intrusions still exist. If you've ever noticed a unexplained drop in internet speed, constant interruptions or you just want to make sure that no one is accessing your connection without permission, here you will find the most complete guide to know Who is connected to your WiFi from Android and how to protect your network from future threats.
Why is it important to know who is on your WiFi?
In addition to affecting connection speed and the quality of your browsing, an intruder connected to your Wi-Fi network poses a risk to your privacy and the security of your devices. An unauthorized user can consume your bandwidth, access shared files, and, in some cases, even compromise the security of your personal or banking data.
Furthermore, with the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as cameras, smart light bulbs, and voice assistants, every connected device is a potential gateway for cybercriminals if proper precautions are not taken.
Signs that someone is using your Wi-Fi without permission
- Noticeable loss of Internet speedIf your browsing is slower than usual or your streaming video keeps dropping, and you haven't changed your plan or added any new devices, this is a warning sign.
- Frequent network disconnections or outages: Intermittent connections or sudden outages may be due to too many devices connected or someone overloading your network.
- Strange devices on the router panelIf you access the administration panel and see computers with unknown names or MAC addresses, you are probably the victim of an intrusion.
- Activity on the router at unusual times: See if the router's activity lights are blinking when no one in your home should be using the internet.
How to know who is connected to your WiFi from Android?
The good news is that from your own Android smartphone you can check how many and which devices are using your Wi-Fi network. You have the option to do this by using the router management interface or through free applications available on the Google Play Store, which make the task much easier.
Access via router configuration
If you have the login information, this method will allow you to view the complete list of connected devices, their IP and MAC addresses, and in some cases, even their data usage.
- Open your mobile browser and enter the IP address of your router (usually it is 192.168.1.1 o 192.168.0.1). You can find the exact address on a label on the router itself.
- Enter your username and password (the default is usually "admin" in both fields, although it is recommended to change them for security reasons).
- Look for the section «Connected devices»Or«DHCP clients«.
- View the list, identify your familiar devices, and locate those you don't recognize.
View connected devices from your carrier's apps
Some operators, such as Movistar, Vodafone, Orange or Jazztel, offer official applications for managing your router. These apps allow you to view connected devices in real time and, in some cases, pause the connection or block access to the WiFi network easily.
- My Movistar
- My Vodafone
- My orange
- Jazztel Smart WiFi
Apps to know who is connected to your WiFi from Android
The quickest and most visual way for most users is to use one of the many apps available on Google Play. Here are the most notable ones and what you can expect from them:
- Fing - Network Scanner: It is one of the most complete and popular apps. Scan the WiFi networkIdentifies and lists all connected devices, displaying the manufacturer, IP address, MAC address, device type, and even the model. It also allows you to run speed tests, detect open ports, and analyze network security. With IFTTT integration, you can receive alerts when a new device connects to your network.
- WiFiman: Highly valued for its intuitive interface, it offers a list of devices with technical details, such as MAC and IP addresses, and ping and speed tests. It doesn't allow you to block devices from the app, but it does provide relevant information for identifying intruders.
- netcut: Allows you to scan the network and disconnect unauthorized devicesIt's useful for exercising control over the network directly from your mobile phone.
- Wi-Fi Checker: In addition to the usual information about connected devices, it includes security options and diagnostics to improve the protection of your network.
Other useful applications to detect intruders on your WiFi
- Who is on my WiFi: Simple and functional, it displays all connected devices and makes it easy to track common and uncommon devices.
- Network Analyzer: Similar to Fing, but its strength lies in performing advanced diagnostics and speed tests.
- Bitdefender HomeScanner: Ideal for those who want to automate the detection of new devices and receive real-time alerts about potential threats.
The great advantage of all these apps is that you don't need advanced technical knowledge. Just install the app, connect to your Wi-Fi network, and follow the instructions to view and manage your devices.
What information can you get about connected devices?
Most applications and routers offer the following data for each device:
- Device name or assigned identifier
- IP address (identification on the local network)
- MAC address (unique physical identification of each device)
- Manufacturer and, in some cases, model
- Data usage (some advanced routers)
- Connection status or type (WiFi, LAN cable)
This information allows you identify your own devices and quickly detect any strange equipment.
What to do if you detect intruders on your WiFi network
If you identify unknown devices after running a scan, it's time to take action to regain control and protect your network:
- Change your WiFi passwordGo to your router's wireless settings and set a strong password. Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid obvious phrases.
- Disconnect all devices: When you change the password, all devices will be disconnected and only authorized users will be able to reconnect by entering the new password.
- Enable MAC filtering: Limits network access to only devices whose MAC addresses you have manually authorized.
- Disable WPS (WiFi Protected Setup): This system, although practical, is vulnerable to brute-force attacks. It's best to disable it.
- Update the firmware of the router: Keeping your router software up to date is essential to address potential security holes.
- Divide the network into twoUse the "Guest Wi-Fi" option so your guests never have access to the main password. You can limit their speed and access to your home devices.
Advanced options to monitor your WiFi from your mobile and PC
In addition to mobile apps, you have desktop utilities to maintain comprehensive control over your network from your PC:
- Wireless Network Watcher: Free for Windows, scans your network and displays all active devices in real time.
- Advanced IP Scanner: Scans the local network showing complete technical details and connection history.
- LanScan (Mac): Specific to Mac systems, it performs a quick scan of the network and details the connected devices.
- Wireshark y Nmap: More technical tools that allow you to analyze the traffic passing through your network to detect complex threats or advanced intrusions.
How to detect and block connected devices from Android?
Aside from identifying who is online, some applications offer the possibility of block access to suspicious devices:
- In the router's official app or by accessing its administration panel via a browser, locate the list of "clients" or "connected devices," select the intruders, and use the "block" or "deny access" options.
- With tools like Netcut, you can perform a "network cut" directly from your mobile phone.
- On more advanced routers, set up parental control rules or whitelists/blacklists to restrict access to only trusted devices.
Remember that steps and options may vary depending on the make and model of your router; always consult the manufacturer's manual or official website.
Additional security measures to protect your WiFi
- Rename your WiFi network (SSID)Avoid leaving the default name, especially if it includes references to the carrier or router model. Use neutral names and never reveal personal information.
- Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryptionNo more old-fashioned WEP or WPA. Choose the most advanced protection compatible with your devices.
- Turn off Wi-Fi when you go out for several days.: Especially useful on vacation or prolonged absences.
- Hide the SSID: This way, your network won't be visible in typical scans, although advanced users can find it, adding an extra layer of security.
- Monitor the network periodically: Perform checks from time to time and at the first sign of slowness or anomaly.
- Create a guest network: This way you can share the Internet with visitors without exposing your main network.
How do I know who is connected to my WiFi on Android?
To detect possible intruders, you can also consult how to keep your social networks safe and strengthen your digital security. Additionally, if you want to automate detection and real-time alerts, platforms like IFTTT offer integration so you'll receive notifications when a new device connects to your network.
What are the consequences of having your WiFi stolen?
In addition to the loss of speed, unauthorized use of your WiFi can lead to legal risks and privacy. If someone uses your connection to commit crimes, you could be initially held responsible. There's also the risk of information theft and the spread of malware or viruses between devices.
- Legal responsabilityThe Spanish Penal Code provides for fines for anyone who accesses protected networks without consent.
- Theft of information and privacy: Intruders may try to access your personal data or confidential files.
- malware infection: Compromised devices can spread viruses or Trojans to other computers on the network.
Therefore, maintain good digital hygiene Managing your WiFi network is essential to ensure a safe and peaceful browsing experience.
Differences between devices connected via WiFi, Bluetooth, and other methods
Not all devices connected to your network necessarily do so via Wi-Fi. Some, such as printers, headsets, and accessories, may use Bluetooth or direct connections.
To properly identify devices, look at the connection type and technical details. Network analysis applications distinguish between connection modes, making them easier to manage.
Key tips to keep your Wi-Fi safe and efficient
- Change default passwords immediately upon installing the router.
- Keep your router and devices updated with the latest firmware.
- Activate two-factor authentication if your network management app allows it.
- Avoid sharing your master password and use the guest network for third parties.
- Disable remote access to the router's administration panel unless strictly necessary.
