Device list appearing in Windows Explorer's network section
Device list appearing in Windows Explorer's network section
I occasionally notice unconnected gadgets—like printers or TVs—appearing in my network section of Windows Explorer. I’ve verified that all devices listed in the router’s inventory belong to me. For instance, an LG TV shows up as expected. On other forums, people mention something about WPS setup and how it might recognize nearby phones, but that doesn’t seem to apply here. My PC lacks a wireless card, so it can’t detect other devices without a network connection. If this is the case, I’m curious about how the router communicates with my computer about these items. Here’s a snapshot of relevant hardware: motherboard with built-in NIC, Arcadyan PRV65B444A-S-TS (Telus Wi-fi Hub).
Checking that MAC address reveals it’s linked to an "LGInnote LG Innotek" device. Have you attempted locating the MAC in your routers client list? Examine the associated IP address and try to identify it. If the device appears on your Wi-Fi network but isn’t yours, consider altering your Wi-Fi password, restarting your router and computer, and observe if the issue resolves.
It often occurs when a nearly compatible device tries to join your network. Without the password, it remains detectable but inactive since the WiFi equipment is linked to the router without a valid IP or communication capability.
I've searched for similar items and haven't found any matches yet. This likely explains why they vanish after some time. It appears people nearby are connecting their TVs and printers to Wi-Fi, which might be the cause. Do you have any information or resources that could help clarify this?
I meant to mention that I haven’t found them in the router’s device list. In Windows Explorer, I don’t see any devices except my own, though these random entries sometimes vanish when I refresh the explorer window. I’ll keep checking the explorer over the coming days to track if anything appears.
Right after posting, I saw an Android Box in Windows Explorer. I turned off WPS on all three Wi-Fi bands—some users reported success elsewhere. After refreshing the explorer a few times, the device vanished, suggesting it might be blocking connections without a password. I’m not sure if this is happening or if someone just left the Wi-Fi menu open. Could this be the reason you’re having trouble?
Over the past few days, I believe disabling WPS resolved the issue. No devices appeared after I turned it off, and they reappeared when I reactivated it.