Don’t allow unauthorized individuals to potentially slow down your internet connection. While reduced speeds may not necessarily mean someone is exploiting your connection, they could be a result of multiple gadgets sharing a congested link. Here’s how to identify the source of the problem, using a straightforward tool for Windows:
**Step 1:** Install a copy of [Who Is On My WiFi](http://www.whoisonmywifi.com/download/download-complete/).
**Step 2:** Open the software and follow the instructions to begin your first network scan. This process could trigger a secondary scan. You can adjust the scanning port range, but a basic analysis doesn’t require these changes.
After the scan, the software will display all discoverable IP addresses, each differentiated by its MAC address and local IP (assigned by your router).
**Step 3:** Start identifying the gadgets connected to your network. Enable Wi-Fi for each device one by one for more straightforward labeling if several connections are detected. To label, click on the Description box of the relevant line, key in a name, then click Save in the upper right corner.
Advanced users can reference the local IP and/or MAC address of their devices for the labeling process. For instance, clicking on the currently connected Wi-Fi network on an Android device will show the local IP.
**Step 4 (Optional):** Upon identifying an unauthorized user on your Wi-Fi, immediately alter your wireless password. If you utilize a personal wireless router, log in using your configured credentials. Should you use a modem/router combo by your ISP, you may need to research the default login for your particular model – ISPs rarely change these. Contact your ISP for a password reset if you have login issues.
Remember, devices that are hardwired and lack Wi-Fi support might appear on the list with “NO” listed in the Connected column.
Hopefully, the provided information, steps, and connections should empower you to protect your connection against potential Wi-Fi freeloaders.
Credit: Nicole Cozma/CNET
Updated in 2025 to align with recent developments.
What to do if unknown devices are on your Wi-Fi
Quick answer: If you see an unknown device on your Wi-Fi, change your router password, update encryption settings and remove old shared access.
Why this still matters
Router admin pages usually show connected devices more accurately than Windows alone.
Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption and avoid weak Wi-Fi passwords.
Unknown devices can indicate shared passwords, old guests or a real security issue.
Paul Balo is the founder of TechBooky and a highly skilled wireless communications professional with a strong background in cloud computing, offering extensive experience in designing, implementing, and managing wireless communication systems.
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