How to Tell if Your Neighbors Are Stealing Your Wi Fi

Nowadays, an internet plan from any ISP can be expensive. Sleazy neighbors might take advantage of your good Wi-Fi and connect something to it. Read on to see how you can detect Wi-Fi intruders.


Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Detecting Intruders (Windows)

  1. 1
    Turn on your computer/laptop, and log in.
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    2
    Press the Windows key and R. In the dialogue, type in "explorer.exe"
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    3
    Wait for a window to open, it will display hard drives and other things. Click on "Network" on the side bar.
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    4
    Carefully examine the list that is brought up. If you see any fishy devices, like a weird phone, or computer, etc. read on. If you don't, navigate to 192.168.1.1 or your router's address. Find a device map and look for any fishy devices. If none are found, you have no intruders!
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Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Kicking Out Any Intruders

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    Navigate to 192.168.1.1 or your router's IP. If you are not sure what the IP is, call your Internet Service Provider.
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    2
    Once in, enter the username and password. Most of the time it is: Username: Admin Password: password Read your router's setup guide if you are not sure. Then, change your router's password to something unique and secure.
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    Find the main menu and go to Wi-Fi settings
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    Find your Wi-Fi name (SSID) and your Wi-Fi Password. Change the SSID to something else besides the default.
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    Change/add a password. Choose a strong password that not easily guessable. Use a password generator if desired for more security.
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    Make a text file, and add the password, labeling it Wi-Fi Password.
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    7
    Save the changes. Pat yourself on the back, because you have kicked the intruder out!
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Warnings

  • Some ISPs are picky if you change the SSID; make sure that this does not void your warranty.
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  • You will kick your Wi-Fi devices off the Wi-Fi. To fix this problem, simply forget the network, and enter the new password.
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About This Article

Stan Kats
Co-authored by:
Stan Kats
Cybersecurity Expert
This article was co-authored by Stan Kats. Stan Kats is the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology & cybersecurity solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan has over 7 years of cybersecurity experience, holding senior positions in information security at General Motors, AIG, and Aramark over his career. Stan received a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. This article has been viewed 21,591 times.
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Co-authors: 8
Updated: June 17, 2022
Views: 21,591
Categories: Neighbors | Wi Fi
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