How to catch a Wi‑Fi thief and reclaim your internet speed
Is your Wi-Fi slowing down recently or even completely disconnecting? This might indicate unauthorised use of your network. Discover how easy it is to expose an internet "thief."
Has your Wi-Fi been functioning unstably for a while, frequently slowing down or completely disconnecting? This might mean someone is using your network without your consent. We often fail to realise that an unauthorised device can burden our connection, especially if we once shared the password with someone.
Check the device lists
Using your router's configuration interface is an effective way to check who is connected to your Wi-Fi. The router's manual will provide information on how to access the configuration portal, where you can find options such as "Traffic Manager" or "Wireless Network Status."
Once you enter such a section, you'll see a list of all devices using your internet. By excluding your own devices, you can quickly identify the "intruder."
How to secure your network?
The most straightforward action is to change the network password and restart the router. This will require all devices to re-enter the new password. If you have specific suspicions, you can block particular devices based on their MAC addresses through the router's panel. It is also essential to consider the encryption type - WPA2 or WPA3 are the recommended standards to ensure adequate network protection.
It may be worth replacing the router with a newer model for enhanced protection, offering improved security and more stable connections. Employing modern encryption standards reduces the risk of unauthorised access. With practical measures, we can enjoy a stable internet connection and secure our home network from "thieves."
