Use this site to check your network for unauthorized devices

You keep your device’s operating system up to date. You are using Internet security software. You are very knowledgeable about not falling into online scams.

Even so, malware and cybercriminals can still evade it. Try this free check to see if criminals have hacked your router, giving them open access to all your files, passwords and more.

Your security arsenal includes a firewall. Here’s a free trial to make sure your firewall is blocking access to bad actors and bots.

How many devices are connected to your home wireless network? a handful? Dozens? As time goes on and you add new gadgets, it’s easy to lose track of everything connected to it, or worse, pay attention to things that don’t belong.

Here’s how to determine what’s on your network and cut out what shouldn’t.

Go to your router’s admin page
This is a relatively simple way to get an idea of ​​who is using your network. Bonus: It’s free! Log in to your router to see an up-to-date list of connected devices. Your computer has a unique IP address or Internet Protocol address.

To get started, you’ll need your computer’s IP address. Tap or click here to learn how to find it.

Then, type the IP address into your browser’s address bar. This will open your router menu. Log in with a custom username and password or the default information for your router if you have never set one. If you don’t know the password, here are instructions on how to find and change it.

Once you’re in, check the list that says DHCP clients or connected devices. From there, you’ll see a list of devices currently using your network. If you find something you don’t recognize, it’s time to take action.

Change your Wi-Fi password and reconnect only devices you trust. It is a very long process, but one worth doing.

Advanced IP Scanner is a free and reliable alternative that gives instant results with very little input from you. It is compatible with Windows 10. Get its direct link here.

To use Advanced IP Scanner, all you have to do is download and install it, then run the program to analyze your wireless network. Click on the big green button that says Scan. A network scan starts showing you all the devices currently connected to your Wi-Fi.

This should only take a few seconds, and you can export your results for safekeeping.

Use Acrylic Wi-Fi Professional

If you’re looking for something with a lot more oomph, try Acrylic’s Wi-Fi Professional app.

The free version gives you access to up to five devices, while the paid version gives you unlimited devices. The app can monitor traffic on your network, manage passwords, and more. This is a great business solution or option for anyone with more than one network.

Being more aware of who is using your network is an important step for your internet speed and privacy – and we can all be a lot more vigilant about it.

Need a hand with a slow PC, smartphone problem or a software problem you just can’t solve? Post your technical questions for concrete answers from me and other tech professionals. Visit my Q&A forum and get technical support now.

What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call up Kim’s national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim’s free podcast.