How do you tell if someone is using your hotspot?

How to Identify Users Connected to Your Hotspot

Sharing your Wi-Fi hotspot can be a convenient way to provide internet access to others, but it also raises concerns about who might be using your connection. If you suspect someone is piggybacking on your hotspot without your knowledge, there are a few ways to check.

Method 1: Check Connected Devices

1. Connect to your hotspot using a device you know is authorized.
2. Open the command terminal on your device (e.g., Terminal on macOS, Command Prompt on Windows).
3. Enter the following command:

arp -a

This command will display a list of all devices connected to your hotspot, along with their IP and MAC addresses. If you see any unfamiliar devices or IP addresses, it’s a sign that someone else might be using your hotspot.

Method 2: Check Router Logs

If your router supports logging, you can check the logs to see a history of connected devices. The specific location of the logs may vary depending on your router model.

1. Log into your router’s web interface.
2. Navigate to the “Logs” or “System Log” section.
3. Look for entries related to DHCP leases or connected devices.

These logs will show you the IP and MAC addresses of all devices that have connected to your hotspot over time. Again, if you see any unfamiliar devices, it’s an indication that someone else may be using your connection.

Method 3: Use a Network Scanner

There are various network scanner tools available, both free and paid, that can help you identify connected devices on your network. These tools typically scan the network for active IP addresses and MAC addresses and display a list of connected devices.

1. Download and install a network scanner tool on your computer.
2. Run the network scanner and select your hotspot’s network.
3. The tool will display a list of connected devices, including their IP and MAC addresses.

Note:

• These methods require you to have root access or administrator privileges on your device.
• If you are unable to access the command terminal or router logs, you may need to contact your router manufacturer for assistance.
• It’s important to regularly check your hotspot connections to ensure that only authorized devices are using your network resources.