Eliminate an intruder from a red WiFi Not only does it help improve speed, but also protects personal information that circulates through the connected devices.
Although there are several methods to expel an unauthorized user, that is, your device, there is one that stands out for its effectiveness: block the MAC address of the device from the router.
This action prevents that device from being able to connect again, even if it knows the password. The best thing is that you will not get any message notifying you that you have been blockedbut you simply will not find a connection.
What is MAC blocking and why does it work?
Every device, from a phone to a laptop, has a unique MAC address that identifies it on any network. MAC filtering allows you to create a blacklist within the router with the addresses you want to block.
When the MAC is included in that list, the device is permanently banned– You will not be able to re-enter the network even if someone tries to do so with the correct password.
It is a useful tool for cases in which you do not want to change the WiFi password or when it has been detected that an intruder reconnects again and again.
Remember that when you change the password, you will have to enter it again on your devices and share it with those you trust, but this does not eliminate the possibility of the intruder trying to access the network again.
How to block an intruder from your WiFi network: 5 steps
- Access the router configuration panel
In the address bar the IP of the device is written, which is usually 192.168.0.1 o 192.168.1.1. Next, you enter your administration credentials.
If they have never been modified, they are usually on a label on the router or in the provider’s manual.
- Locate the access control function
Within the configuration menu, look for the option responsible for filtering. Depending on the model, it may appear as MAC Filtering, Access Control o Wireless Control.
- Activate the blacklist to block devices
Routers usually offer a white list (allow only certain devices) or black list (block only unwanted ones). To remove intruders, select Blacklist or Deny.
- Identify the MAC address of the intruder
Most routers show a list of all connected devices, where you can see the name of the device, its IP and its MAC. From there you copy the address or select it directly to add it to the block list.
- Add the MAC to the list and save the changes
Adding the MAC to the block list confirms the settings and saves the changes. Some routers require a reboot for the new rule to take effect. From that moment on, the device is outside the network.