How to Detect an Unknown Apple Device on WiFi Network

unknown apple device on wifi network

Have you ever detected an unknown Apple Device on WiFi network? When you find an unknown Apple device connected to your network it creates confusion about its purpose. Don’t worry. The following guide shows you how to resolve the issue while explaining its nature in detail.


Understanding “Unknown Apple Device on WiFi Network

A device using your WiFi reveals its unique identification known as MAC address when it connects. Every Apple device like an iPhone or iPad has one. If you see an unknown device, it could mean:

  • One of your devices is using a name you don’t recognize.
  • Someone else’s Apple device accidentally joined your WiFi.
  • An unknown user has gained access to your WiFi network.


Steps to Take if an Unknown Device Connects to Your WiFi

Steps to Take When You Find an Unknown Device:

  1. Log In to Your Router Settings
    Open your router’s control panel. To locate the router’s IP address simply check the back side of your device.
  2. Check Connected Devices
    Look for a list of devices connected to your WiFi network. Each device has a name or MAC address.
  3. Block the Unknown Device
    If the router allows it, block the device you don’t recognize. This stops it from using your WiFi.
  4. Change Your WiFi Password
    Update your WiFi password. Combining letters together with numbers and special symbols strengthens your password.
  5. Enable MAC Address Filtering
    This lets you allow only trusted devices on your network. Add your device’s MAC addresses to the whitelist for authorized access.

How to Identify an Apple Device on WiFi

To figure out if a device is yours or not:

  1. Check the MAC Address
    Find the MAC address in your router’s settings.
  2. Use a MAC Address Lookup Tool
    You can use online tools to check which company made the device. For example, Apple devices will say “Apple” as the manufacturer.
  3. Look for Familiar Names
    Some devices show names like “John’s iPhone.” If you recognize the name, it’s yours.

Why Is There an Unknown Device on My Find My iPhone?

If you see an unknown device in Find My iPhone, it could mean:

  1. Your device got connected to someone else’s account.
  2. Someone used your Apple ID by mistake.

You should access your Apple ID account to eliminate any device that isn’t yours from the system.


How to Detect Hidden Devices on WiFi
If a device appears hidden or doesn’t display a recognizable name, follow these steps:

  1. Check Your Router
    Go to your router’s admin panel to see all connected devices.
  2. Use a Network Scanning App
    Apps like Fing or NetSpot show all devices connected to your network, even hidden ones.
  3. Look for Strange MAC Addresses
    If the MAC address doesn’t match your devices, it could be unknown.

Unknown Apple Device on WiFi Network Reddit Tips

Many people on Reddit share their experiences with unknown Apple devices on WiFi. Some users suggest using tools like Fing to find the device. Others recommend changing your password or updating your router. Reading these tips can help you feel less worried.


How to Fix Unknown Apple Device on WiFi Network

Here’s a simple steps for you to fix the issue:

  1. Open your router’s settings.
  2. Look for the connected devices list.
  3. Block the device you don’t know.
  4. Change your WiFi password.
  5. Use MAC address filtering for better security.

What Is an Apple Device MAC Address?

An Apple device MAC address is a unique code that helps identify the device. You can find it in your router’s connected devices list or on the Apple device itself.


What to Do About Unknown MAC Addresses on WiFi

If you notice an unknown MAC address connected to your WiFi, take the following actions:

  1. Look up the MAC address using a tool online.
  2. Block the MAC address if it doesn’t belong to you.
  3. Change your password to stop anyone from reconnecting.
  4. Turn on MAC address filtering.

Find Device Name by MAC Address on Android

If you’re using an Android phone, apps like Fing can help. These apps scan your network and show the device name and MAC address of every connected device.


Final Thoughts

Do not worry when you detect an unknown Apple device on your WiFi network. The unknown Apple device you find on your WiFi network could be a different device though one of yours which presents with a different name. But if it’s not yours, follow the steps in this guide to secure your network.

Always use strong passwords and check your router for strange devices regularly. This will keep your WiFi safe from unwanted users.