I received notifications that a new device was added to my home WiFi, but my wife and I have not added anything new. The AT&T app identified this device as "unknown device" and mentioned that the connection was made from the attic, which confuses me since our internet connection comes from the downstairs exterior walls. It also provided a MAC address. Can anyone help me determine what type of device this might be using just the MAC address?
3 Answers
You can check the first three octets of the MAC address, known as the OUI, which corresponds to the manufacturer's ID. Use a MAC address lookup tool like the one on Wireshark's site to see if you get any clues about the maker of the device. However, keep in mind that if it’s a generic manufacturer, like Intel or Realtek, it won’t help much in identifying the exact device.
First off, make sure your network is password protected. Since you're getting alerts, it’s wise to change the password anyway. You can also check the connected devices through the app to see what's on your network. If you don't recognize a device, consider blocking it. Just curious about how the app detected the device's location—it sounds a bit odd. To investigate further, you can look up the MAC address online; the first part usually reveals the manufacturer. Sometimes that can help you identify the type of device you’re dealing with.
I appreciate your help. I initially thought it reconnected, but I checked again, and it's still blocked for now. Fingers crossed it stays that way!
Beware that some devices, like iPhones, randomize their MAC addresses for privacy. If that's the case, what you’re seeing might just be your kids' phones connecting, especially if they use iPhones. You might not need to worry about it!
That's a good point. My wife and I have Android phones, but our kids do have iPhones. That could definitely explain it.
Thanks for the advice! I blocked the device, but it seems to have reconnected somehow. I'm planning to change my WiFi password now.