OS Sandbox Permissions

Because network scanning requires sending arbitrary raw packets and checking responsive sockets, mobile operating systems treat subnet sweeps with high caution. Understanding how to manage these permissions guarantees a fast, accurate scan experience.

1. iOS Local Network Permission

Starting with iOS 14, Apple restricted direct socket queries to private IP spaces (e.g., 192.168.x.x, 10.x.x.x) to prevent silent user tracking and fingerprinting via advertising networks.

The first time LAN Lens executes a sweep, iOS displays a standard system modal prompting: "LAN Lens would like to find and connect to devices on your local network."

Denying Access Blocks Scanning

If you select Don't Allow, the iOS kernel completely blocks LAN Lens's UDP and TCP raw socket attempts. Subnet sweeps will return immediately with 0 active devices.

How to Re-Enable Local Network Access on iOS:

  1. Launch the system Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Scroll down and tap Privacy & Security.
  3. Select Local Network from the list.
  4. Find LAN Lens and toggle the switch to the right (green) position.
  5. Relaunch LAN Lens and restart your sweep.

2. Android Location Permission (Wi-Fi Scanning)

On Android 8.0 and above, the kernel restricts an app's ability to read Wi-Fi network details (such as the current Wi-Fi name/SSID or gateway MAC address) unless the user grants Fine Location Access (GPS/Network Location).

Why does Android bind Wi-Fi to Location?

Because the physical locations of millions of public Wi-Fi router BSSIDs (MAC addresses) are mapped globally, a malicious application can easily resolve a user's exact geographical coordinates simply by scanning nearby routers, without ever querying the GPS receiver. Consequently, Android protects Wi-Fi metadata under the Location privilege sandbox.

LAN Lens **never** captures or uploads your GPS location. Location access is strictly used to identify your local gateway IP and subnet mask in order to construct the correct sweep ranges.

How to Verify Permissions on Android:

  1. Open your Android device's Settings.
  2. Tap Apps & Notifications or Apps Manager.
  3. Locate and select LAN Lens.
  4. Tap Permissions.
  5. Ensure **Location** is granted (set to "Allow only while using the app").