How can I prevent my housemate from accessing my wireless internet?

shredder · 12-04-2008, 17:56

No, I'm not being stingy!

The broadband account is in my name and the direct debit comes out of my account each month.....and he's not paid me his share in four months, despite numerous requests. Is there anyway for me to prevent him from using the internet without him knowing I've done it?

Thanks

K

jellybaby · 12-04-2008, 17:58

If its wireless, why not change the WEP/WPA, and change and hide the SSID. That way your router would just vanish

**Rob** · 12-04-2008, 17:59

It would be obvious if you've blocked it.

Assuming you have control over the router, log into the admin page, change the admin password so he can't log in himself. Then change the wireless password key. You'd have to change the key on your own computers to match the new one.

If he has physical access to the modem / router, he could of course just unplug cables.

Edit: Oh and do the SSID thingy as suggested above too

Losttheplot · 12-04-2008, 18:01

MAC filtering would also stop his access.

shredder · 12-04-2008, 18:14

Thanks guys, he does have access to the router, but wouldn't know what to do with it, and if he saw the other laptop etc working would just assume it was his that was at fault! I'll give the above a try.

Whilst I'm here, is there anyway to control the amount he downloads? He's forever downloading films and slowing everyone elses connection down despite my asking him not to!

**Rob** · 12-04-2008, 18:21

Has the router got a QoS function. That would enable his bandwith to be throttled relative to the other connections.

shredder · 12-04-2008, 18:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob

Has the router got a QoS function. That would enable his bandwith to be throttled relative to the other connections.

Not sure, how would I check this?!

**Rob** · 12-04-2008, 18:30

Depends on the router. Look in the admin panel options.

shredder · 12-04-2008, 18:42

Sorry, I'm really dumb beyond the basics! Can anyone tell me where I do this?!

**Rob** · 12-04-2008, 18:43

What is your router make and model?

shredder · 12-04-2008, 18:59

Umm it's a Netgear DG834G I'm guessing it's not possible on this model? If so, which would be a good router to purchase that does have it?

Enuff · 12-04-2008, 19:59

Shoot him!

shredder · 12-04-2008, 20:31

I would if I thought I'd get away with it

saabmania2 · 12-04-2008, 20:51

Quote:

Originally Posted by shredder

I would if I thought I'd get away with it

i'm sure there is a forum somewhere that would help you out with that one lol!!
but as said above why not just change the router as jellybaby said (quote) If its wireless, why not change the WEP/WPA, and change and hide the SSID. That way your router would just vanish

it's the best way and so what if he knows you've done it, it is your connection after all and i hate freeloaders he's just as bad as someone who has a cloned modem in my eye's (what's your address i'll grass him up) lol

redbluetwo · 14-04-2008, 21:28

Here's a radical suggestion.
Change your network security password.
Ask your friend (sponge) to pay for the last four months and next month in advance.
Give your friend the password once paid up.
Put your foot down you'll feel better afterward.