ProbeShieldNetwork security guides
Practical, specific guides to securing your home network, written for people who want the actual steps and not vague advice.
What Is a MAC Address? How to Find Yours (and What It Reveals)
A MAC address is a unique hardware ID assigned to every network device. Learn how to read one, find yours on any device, and what the manufacturer prefix can and can't tell you.
Read guideWhy Is My Router Showing Devices That Aren't Home? (Ghost Devices Explained)
See devices on your WiFi router that aren't home or are turned off? Learn why DHCP lease times and iPhone/Android private MAC addresses create ghost devices, and how to verify real active clients.
Read guideHow to Tell If Your Router Is Hacked (10 Warning Signs & Fixes)
Think your WiFi router might be hacked? Learn the 10 critical warning signs of router compromise, how to check for DNS hijacking and open ports, and how to disinfect your gateway.
Read guideWhat Is an 'Espressif' Device on My WiFi? (And Is It Safe?)
Found an unfamiliar 'Espressif' device connected to your WiFi router? Learn why smart plugs and IoT bulbs use Espressif chips, how to find the physical device, and if it's safe.
Read guideHow to Know If Someone Is Stealing Your WiFi (5 minute Check)
Check who is on your WiFi in 5 minutes: the signs of WiFi theft, how to see every connected device, how to identify unknown ones, and how to kick them off for good.
Read guideWiFi Keeps Disconnecting on Android? Here’s How to Actually Fix It (2026)
Android WiFi dropping constantly or disconnecting when idle? A step by step troubleshooting guide covering phone settings, router conflicts, and network fixes.
Read guideThe Home Network Security Checklist: 10 Steps to Protect Your WiFi
A concrete 10 step checklist to secure your home WiFi network: from router admin credentials to IoT isolation and port exposure checks.
Read guideHow to Find Every Device Connected to Your WiFi Network (Even Hidden Ones)
A practical guide to discovering every device on your home network, including the ones your router's device list misses, and identifying unknown devices in minutes.
Read guideWhat Open Ports Are & Why to Scan Your Home Network (Explained)
A plain English guide to open ports on home networks: which ones are dangerous (Telnet, RTSP, SMB), how to scan them safely, and how to close them.
Read guideIs Your Home Security Camera Exposed to the Internet? How to Check
How to check whether your IP security camera is reachable from outside your network, why port forwarding and UPnP expose feeds, and how to secure it.
Read guide