what does "unauthorized computers on your network " mean please?

[pellmell]

In a language that a reception age child might understand (as I have a mental age of one when it comes to technical stuff)please!

A Neighbour has connected to your internet Thats what I'd guess.

I can do it with my wireless laptop, search for other internet connections available and then connect to one thats available. I sometimes do it if I can't be bothered to go upstairs to turn the internet on.

Yes- someone is hitching a ride on your wifi.

Yep, one of the neighbours is using your internet. Should be easy to password protect it though.

ok, so macaphee or what ever it's called gives me this warning over the last couple of days. When I open up the map it shows 4 unauthorized "friends" or "unknown" boxes.
Does that mean four neighbours are free loading of my wireless connection and are there any implications for me?

You need to sort the security out on your wireless internet connection so that people can't piggyback it.

I'll admit I do it at MILs, when I want to show her pictures of the DCs that my Mum has put on FB.

Also it will be slowing your connection down.

Put a password on.

Also, you may be able to see who it is- I know all of my neighbours computers (mine too) show up on networks as their actual names.

stupid question how do you put a password on.
Where do you mean?

Have you got PSPs or a PS3 or any other hardware that can connect wirelessly to the 'net? It could be those... but DH says it is probably people in the vicinity who have realised you've left it unprotected.

This is my DH not me...

in internet explorer try typing: 192.168.1.254 where you would usually type an internet address (if .254 doesn't work try .255).
this should hopefully open your router's settings. you need to go through them until you find the security settings and turn them on. your router may have a sticker or label on it somewhere with a ten digit code alphanumeric code - this is your default password. You can make one up yourself if you prefer.
once you have turned the security on, you will need to identify your pc on the network and allow it access the router. if you get stuck, there should be instructions on your isp's website.

thankyou so much.
We have just connected bt vision.
I phoned BT as they are our wireless broadband provider, they couldn't help so I tried macafee online tech services. still baffled as how to solve it.
Will try serenity dh instructions....need to get neglected childn to bed first though