Get to know eight programs that identify who’s stealing your Wi-Fi
With the help of some programs, the user can discover all the devices that are connected to their Wi-Fi. In this way, possible intruders that are stealing your connection are “denounced,” leaving the internet slower. There is still the risk of sharing personal data with the intruder, compromising your online security.
To prevent this from happening, this list offers eight program and application options for a full Wi-Fi scan, identifying all the IP ports used and each connected device. Check out the tips.
Computer Softwares
1) Wireless Network Watcher
The Wireless Network Watcher is practical because it does not need installation: just download and open to start using the executable. The feature scans the connected devices on your wireless network, indicating your router, computer, and possible intruders. By clicking on each device, there is information about the IP, name, whether MAC address and more data are currently active. You can configure advanced settings by selecting IP bandwidth by adding audio notifications for specific detections or commands on your computer. With English interface, the program is free and runs on Windows from the 2000 version, working even in the new Windows 10.
2) SoftPerfect WiFi Guard
The Wi-Fi analysis can be done by pressing a quick button, and after a few seconds, a list of all the devices is generated. In the settings, you can select the network adapter and adjust scanning options. Unknown devices are indicated with a red marker, while recognized ones are green. There is a function to select IP address range in the analysis, add an audible alert or specific commands in the detection. SoftPerfect WiFi Guard is free for Windows (from XP) and costs $ 9.99 (about $ 30) for MacOS 10.7 or higher.
3) Advanced Port Scanner
The program is practical to use and the interesting thing is that it shows which devices are connected to Wi-Fi are turned on or off, displaying details of each device. The analysis lasts for a few seconds with results on the device manufacturer, MAC address, shared folders, and which IP ports they use. There are advanced tools for selecting IP Ports, adding specific commands, remote access and checking can be done as often as needed. The download is free, and it is compatible with Windows, including version 10.
4) Angry IP Scanner
The feature provides a primary interface for scanning all the IP Ports of your Wi-Fi connection for intruders. The analysis takes a few seconds and shows the IP addresses with a marker in blue (with connected devices) or red (unused). There are functions to adjust the IP range and advanced settings. Available in the English language, the program offers free download for Windows (from Vista), MacOS X and Linux, with executable versions or with installation in the computer.
Mobile Apps
1) Tether TP-Link
The application is specific to identify devices connected to the TP-Link router via Wi-Fi, using a smartphone or tablet. Available for Android from version 4.0 and iOS, the feature must have a compatible router model to do network analysis. With the feature, the user can identify intruders in Wi-Fi in a simple way and see more information about each connected device, such as IP port used and MAC address. The feature is free to download and you can check how to use the Tether TP-Link on your phone in this tutorial.
2) Fing
Fing is a mobile application that allows you to do a Wi-Fi network scanning for all connected devices. The feature is efficient and lists all the devices connected to the wireless IP port, including describing your router, model of the cell phone, computers or even your Chromecast. The user can also find advanced data from the network and see details of each device, with Ping function and remote actions. Network scanning can be done as often as needed. The app is available for Android, from version 4.1, and on iOS.
3) Who Use My WiFi?
Who Use My WiFi ?? Shows the devices connected to your Wi-Fi in a simple way. The analysis takes a few seconds, and you can see more information about each device, such as MAC address and IP port. The feature describes which item in the list is your router, which is phones, and the rest of the devices, such as computers. This way you can find out if someone uses your wireless network improperly. The user can scan as many times as needed and the app works for free, available for Android in version 4.0.3 or higher.
4) Network Scanner
To conclude, the Network Scanner is a complete solution for those who need to manage the Wi-Fi network, finding “intrusive” devices using their internet. The feature indicates which device is the router, personal computer, cell phones and even “suspicious” or unknown devices. You can rename the items to manage more conveniently by listing your equipment at home. The app even reports advanced data such as wireless signal strength, DNS, and IP information. Also, there are functions to recognize a specific IP, enable notifications, and share the results. The app is compatible with Android 4.0.3 or higher.