by I am in the process of settling in a new house. The other day someone had to log into the Wi-Fi to set up something on the network.
After he left, I logged in and disconnected the device from my network. I'm all for keeping my network safe and organized. You should be too, and it's easier than you think.
Plug in your address to see if you're paying too much online
I write about the latest tech gear, security alerts, and digital life hacks in my daily newsletter. Join 600K+ who get current every day. It's worth it!
Start here
Take a look at your network settings and you may be surprised at who has access to what. It's relatively easy to find out who's using your network in your router's online interface. Log into your router to see the most up-to-date information about which devices are connected. Most models support this, as it is a fairly universal function.
First, you'll need your computer's IP address. Tap or click here for instructions on how to find it.
Once you have it, type the IP address into the address bar of your browser. You should be taken to the menu of your router. You must log in with your router's custom username and password or default information if you have never set one.
When you log in, check the list that says DHCP client or connected devices. From there, you'll be presented with a list of devices that are currently using your network. If you see something you don't recognize, change your Wi-Fi password and reconnect only to devices you trust. It is quite a long process, but it is worth doing.
Quick tech tips on how to save printer ink, malware prevention, browsing speed—and more
You can also manually remove individual devices from the list of connected gadgets. Look for a command to delete, block or delete.
Use an advanced IP scanner
If you don't feel comfortable digging into your network, you can always make an app for yourself. Advanced IP Scanner is a free and reliable option that provides fast results with very little input from you. It is compatible with Windows 10 and 11.
To use Advanced IP Scanner, you need to download and install it, then run the program to analyze your wireless network. Press the big green button that says SCAN. It will start scanning the network to show you all the devices that are currently connected to your Wi-Fi.
It should only take a few seconds, and you can even export your results for storage. This is a great method for those who are less comfortable with technology, especially since it is quick and easy.
Use an acrylic Wi-Fi analyzer
If you're looking for something with more oomph, give it a try Acrylic Wi-Fi analyzer. You can choose between free and paid options, and it does more than just let you see what devices are on your Wi-Fi network.
The free version gives you information on up to five devices, while the paid version gives you information on unlimited devices. It can also help you monitor traffic on your network, manage passwords and much more. This would be a fantastic business solution or a realistic option for anyone with multiple networks.
Make this change if your browser slows to a crawl
Don't forget to remove these devices as well
While you definitely want to boot strangers from your network, you should also look closer to home:
- Get rid of your devices that you no longer use: old phones, speakers, laptops, game consoles and tablets.
- Load guests you haven't had in a while. And the next time you have people over, let them connect to your guest network instead of your main one. Tap or click here and scroll to the fourth to learn how to set it up.
- Sometimes a technician will need access to your network to diagnose a problem or install a new system or device. For example, smart sprinkler technology may need access to your Wi-Fi to set up sprinkler zones. When they are done, remove the device.
- If you break up, remove all your ex's devices and all shared ones, just to be safe.
One final step
Change your network password as needed, especially when you're stalking a stranger or someone you've broken up with. This is the safest way to protect your privacy.
Continue your technical knowledge
My popular podcast is called “Kim Commando today.“It's a solid 30 minutes of tech news, tips and advice from subscribers with the same tech questions as you from across the country. Look for it wherever you get your podcast. For your convenience, follow the link below for the latest episode.
Choose a podcast: America's UFO Hotspot, Voice Cloning Scams and Incognito Tricks
Also, aren't you a fan of smiling in photos? A new Google app could turn that frown upside down. Caller Matt thinks he subscribes to The Weather Channel, but is embarrassed by the need for his SSN. Also, government e-bike discount cuts, Klarna's shopping AI and how to spot a broken webcam.
Check out my podcast on “Kim Komando Today”. Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Or your favorite podcast player.
Listen to the podcast here Or wherever you get your podcast. Just search for my last name, “Commando”.
Click here to get the FOX NEWS app
Sound like a tech pro, even if you're not! Award-winning popular host Kim Commando is your secret weapon. listen to me on 425+ radio stations or Get the podcast. And join over 600,000 people who are getting it Free 5 minute daily e-newsletter.
Copyright 2024, WestStar Multimedia Entertainment. All rights reserved.
