If you notice that your Wi-Fi is consuming a lot more battery than usual, or you still seem to be connected, but the internet is not quite fast, you may be suffering from a poor Wi-Fi connection. Here is our guide to improving the Wi-Fi signal on your Android smartphone.
Find out which Wi-Fi hotspot is the best
Apart from turning the router on and off, which should always be your first option if there is a bad Wi-Fi connection, another method is to use the Wi-Fi analyzer. First, it provides the best channel to use for your particular network. Without going into details, this allows you to optimize the network and not need technical.
Second, it assesses which network in the area has the most stable connection, which is often not the one your phone connects to by default. Finally, it provides easy access to network information like your IP address, network gateway, DNS, etc. It is not essential, but useful for advanced users.
Check if your phone is blocking the signal
Many phone cases actually worsen your Wi-Fi signal, especially if they contain metal, which is often used for extra protection or kickstands. To see if your case is affecting your Wi-Fi signal, perform an Ookla speed test with the case turned off, then, in the same location, put the case back and repeat the test. If you see a difference when using your case, you may want to look at alternatives. The app requires an unlimited number of permissions, so we recommend that you uninstall it as soon as you have completed your testing.
Read: Here’s how to get free Wi-Fi anywhere
Place your router in the perfect location
Another simple trick that can greatly improve the home Wi-Fi connection is optimizing the location of the router. Often it’s placed right next to the phone or cable outlet, but it’s rarely the best for your connection. If you can move it, take a look at the FDTD Wi-Fi solver app which lets you see your router’s signal at a glance.
MacGyver a DIY radio dish
Did all of the above fail? It’s time for the old school option. If you really need a better Wi-Fi signal, you can actually make your own little dish to “catch” the reception better. It is basically a small version of a large radio or satellite antenna. You can use a metal bowl or open a soda can to get a receiving container. It might not be the most convenient thing to do every time you have a weak signal, but it is fun.
Change your Wi-Fi frequency band to 5 GHz
Most Android devices can operate on the 5 GHz frequency band, as well as the older 2.4 GHz band. What does it mean? At high frequencies, like 5 GHz, there is a lot more free space on the spectrum. There are 23 channels of 20 MHz each on the 5 GHz frequency, which is significantly more than the 14 channels offered on 2.4 GHz. Since the channels do not overlap, you are likely to get a better signal on your Wi-Fi network.
For devices on Android 6.0 Marshmallow or older
If your router operates on the 5 GHz band (most recent routers), also switch your phone to this band by going to Settings> Wi-Fi> Advanced> Wi-Fi frequency band, then press Auto . This will ensure that your phone is operating on the 5 GHz band when possible.
Recommendation: 7 tips to protect your Wi-Fi router from cyber attacks
For devices running Android 7.0 Nougat or newer
The ever Android versions don’t let you change the Wi-Fi bands in the settings, but if you feel that you still need this option, there is a handy open source Wi-Fi Analyzer app that lets you easily switch between Wi-Fi band.
Avoid bad connections (Android 6.0 Marshmallow or older)
In the Android Settings menu, there is a neat little option that tells your phone to avoid bad Wi-Fi connections, meaning that while it scans for available networks it will actually avoid trying to get it. connect to those with poor signals. It will save you a lot in terms of power and frustration. Just go to Settings> Wi-Fi and tap the overflow menu button, then tap Advanced. Here you will see the checkbox to avoid bad connections.
Are we missing any tips? What are you doing to boost your Wi-Fi signal?
