How to See Who Is Connected to Your WiFi (Every Device, Every Method)

Wondering if a neighbour is leeching your WiFi? Or maybe you spotted a mystery device in your network list? This guide covers every method to see exactly who and what is connected to your WiFi — from a quick router check to command-line tools on any device. Use WiFi.Report's free network scanner for an instant security check right now.

The Quickest Method: Your Router's Admin Panel

Every router keeps a live list of every device currently connected. This is the most reliable method because it shows all devices — phones, laptops, smart TVs, IoT devices, and anything else on your network.

You'll see a table listing each device's name (hostname), IP address, and MAC address. Some routers also show connection type (WiFi/wired) and signal strength.

How to Check on Windows (No Router Login Needed)

If you want a quick view without logging into your router, Windows has a built-in tool:

Using Command Prompt (ARP Table)

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, press Enter
2. Type: arp -a and press Enter
3. You'll see a list of IP addresses and MAC addresses of devices recently seen on your network

Note: The ARP table only shows devices that have communicated with your computer recently, so it may not show every device on the network. For a complete list, use your router's admin panel or a tool like Advanced IP Scanner (free download).

Using PowerShell

1. Right-click the Start button and choose Windows PowerShell
2. Type: Get-NetNeighbor -State Reachable
3. This shows active devices with their IP and MAC addresses

How to Check on Mac

Using Terminal

1. Open Terminal (Applications → Utilities → Terminal)
2. Type: arp -a and press Enter
3. For a more comprehensive scan: nmap -sn 192.168.1.0/24 (requires nmap, install via Homebrew: brew install nmap)

Using the Network Utility (older macOS)

On older macOS versions: Open Network Utility (in Utilities folder), click on the "Netstat" tab, and choose to display ARP entries.

How to Check on iPhone or iPad

iOS doesn't have a built-in network scanner, but these methods work:

• Router app: Most modern routers have a companion app (ASUS Router, TP-Link Tether, Netgear Nighthawk, BT Smart Hub, Sky Broadband Shield). Download the app for your router brand and sign in — you'll get a real-time device list.
• Fing app: The free Fing app for iOS scans your network and shows all connected devices with names, IP addresses, and manufacturers.

How to Check on Android

• Router companion app: Same as iOS — use your router brand's official app for the most accurate real-time list.
• Fing app: Available on Android too. Tap "Scan" to see all devices on your WiFi instantly.
• WiFi Analyzer apps: Many free WiFi analyzer apps for Android include a "connected devices" feature.

What to Do When You Find Unknown Devices

How to Identify a Mystery Device

1. Check the MAC address prefix. The first 3 bytes of a MAC address identify the manufacturer. Enter it at macvendors.com to find out what made the device.
2. Temporarily disconnect your devices. Turn off each device one by one. When the unknown device disappears from the list, you've found it.
3. Check the IP range. IoT devices often cluster in predictable IP ranges (e.g., 192.168.1.100-149).
4. Look for it in your router's DHCP history. Some routers show when a device first connected and its hostname.

How to Block an Unauthorised Device

If you're sure a device isn't yours, here's how to remove it:

1. MAC Address Blocking: In your router admin panel, find "MAC Filtering" or "Access Control." Add the unknown device's MAC address to the blocklist.
2. Change your WiFi password: This is the most effective method. All devices — including the intruder — will be disconnected immediately. Only reconnect your own devices with the new password.
3. Enable WPA3 encryption: If your router supports it, switching from WPA2 to WPA3 significantly improves security and makes it harder for unauthorised users to crack your password.

How to Prevent Unauthorised Access

• Use a strong, unique WiFi password — at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid dictionary words.
• Create a guest network for visitors and smart home devices, separate from your main network. Read our guide on setting up a guest network.
• Disable WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) — it's a known security vulnerability.
• Update your router firmware regularly to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Check connected devices monthly to catch any unauthorised access early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see who was connected to my WiFi in the past?

Some routers keep a log of DHCP assignments, which shows devices that have connected previously. In your router admin panel, look for "DHCP Log" or "Connection Log." This feature isn't available on all routers, and logs are typically cleared when the router reboots.

Why does my device show a different name than I expect?

Devices use "hostnames" to identify themselves on the network, which can be a model number, a default manufacturer name, or a custom name you set up. iPhones often appear as "iPhone" or the user's name, while Android phones may show the model name (e.g., "Samsung-Galaxy-S24").

Can someone on my WiFi see what I'm doing?

Yes, potentially. Someone with access to your router admin panel can see the websites all devices visit. Using a VPN encrypts your traffic and prevents this. Run our free privacy test to check if your connection is properly protected.

Conclusion

Checking who's on your WiFi is quick and easy once you know where to look. Your router's admin panel gives the most complete picture, while tools like Fing let you check from your phone in seconds. If you find an unauthorised device, changing your WiFi password immediately disconnects everyone — including the intruder. For ongoing security monitoring, WiFi.Report gives you an instant security overview every time you run it.