Many of us rely on our Android devices to complete essential daily tasks, so a poor or non-existent WiFi signal at the wrong time can be costly. Constant issues with WiFi connections could have you considering chucking your current Android device. Before you spend money on a new Android phone or tablet, try establishing a more stable WiFi signal to your Android device in other ways.
1. Turn Your Router On and Off
Problems with your router may be the root of the issues you’re having with your Android WiFi signal. Computers sometimes run into issues while running. There may be problems with the CPU, local storage, or memory. Rebooting a computer device refreshes it and fixes many of the problems that interfere with it running correctly.
Your router is a computer, so turning it on and off performs the same function. It can work as a short-term fix while you do more extensive router troubleshooting. You should wait at least 10 seconds before turning it back onto ensure your router resets everything. If your router has antennas, make sure they point up. Once it reboots, the router should automatically find a less crowded channel that boosts the WiFi connection to your Android device.
2. Check Your WiFi Network
Make sure you’re connected to the right WiFi network. Your device could be inadvertently defaulting to a weaker public or guest network that is in range. Get rid of any low-performing WiFi networks by clearing them from your list of connections so you can avoid that problem in the future.
3. Update the Software on Your Android Device and Router
Outdated software running on your Android phone and router could be another reason you continuously end up with a low-quality WiFi signal. Below you will find instructions that work checking for and performing updates on most routers and Android devices.
Android
Most wireless companies send a prompt to customers when they have a new update available. You can perform the update immediately or schedule it for a later time.
Check your settings to make sure you have the most recent Android software update. Click on the Settings gear, then look for a section labeled “Software Update” or something similar.
Click that section to check for the latest software update or to confirm that you already have it installed.
Router
If you have a newer router, you may be able to manage the settings by connecting to it with your Android device. If you have an older router, you may need to connect to the router through a web browser on your desktop or laptop.
Many routers use the address 192.168.1.1. However, you can check for the correct address by opening a command prompt. You can do this by typing cmd into your search window. Next, type ipconfig at the prompt, then run the command by pressing “Enter.”
Scroll through the text until you see a setting labeled “Default Gateway” underneath
Enter the numbers listed there into your browser to access your router settings. You should receive a prompt to enter the username and password for the router firmware. If you don’t remember the username and password you set up initially, look up the password recovery features for your specific router. If you’re still using the default login credentials, we suggest taking this opportunity to create something more unique.
Look under the “Software” section and check the latest version installed on your router. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) enable automatic software updates. We suggest enabling this option if you currently have this setting disabled. That ensures you always receive the latest software updates for your router.
Older routers may have a separate “Status” page set up for firmware updates. It may prompt you to visit the router manufacturer’s website and perform a manual download of the most recent router update.
4. Check the WiFi Frequency on Your Device
Most Android devices can operate on either a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band. The 5G band functions at a higher level and provides more space on that spectrum. If your Android device currently runs Android 6.0 or older, you can try manually changing the WiFi frequency setting. Switching to 5G can give you better WiFi performance. Keep in mind that the reach of 5G is shorter than 2.4G.
To switch an older Android device over to 5G, go to Settings > WiFi > Advanced > WiFi Frequency Band. Tap “Auto” to enable it to automatically change to 5G when it’s available.
Newer Android devices running 7.0 or higher don’t have this option. However, you can install something like the WiFi Analyzer app to help you locate optimal WiFi frequency channels.
5. Look for Points of Interference
Check for things that could be interfering with the WiFi signal going to your Android phone. A thick case can be great for protecting your device but keep you from having a strong signal, especially if it contains some metal. Unfortunately, there aren’t any apps that can tell you if your problem is as simple as changing your phone case. However, you can try taking the case on and off to see if it improves your WiFi connection.
Make sure your router is sitting upright and in a place where it’s not near electrical equipment that could cause interference. You can also try elevating the router so that it sits above any furniture that could get in the way of the signals. Make sure there’s enough space around the router so that it stays cool and doesn’t overheat.
6. Purchase a WiFi Repeater
A WiFi repeater device, also known as a range extender, boosts the strength and range of the WiFi signals coming from your router. They can be helpful if you live in a large space that makes it hard for you to get a consistent WiFi signal on your Android Device everywhere in your home. A WiFi repeater is also helpful if you would run into difficulty changing the current placement of your router.
7. Try a WiFi Signal Boosting App
There are no apps available that actually boost the WiFi signal of your Android device. The apps you see in the Play store or other sources work more as performance boosters for your phone or tablet. They perform tasks like cleaning your phone caches and freeing up storage and RAM space.
Some monitor the performance of other applications on your phone, shutting down any that put too much stress on your processor. Others automatically check your WiFi connections and automatically refreshes them to make sure you always have the strongest signal. Allowing an app to perform those functions typically helps your phone run faster, which may give the appearance of “boosting” your WiFi performance.
Below are some examples of WiFi signal boosting apps you can find in the Play store.
- WiFi Analyzer By VREM — WiFi Analyzer checks the signal strength of available WiFi networks. It also helps you locate crowded channels on your network. It’s currently rated at 4.2 in the Play store and is updated by a team of developers who provide quick responses to any issues.
- One Booster by One Dot Mobile Limited — Android phones tend to slow down over time due to the accumulation of junk in the storage space, which can make it seem like your WiFi is slow. One Booster performs tasks like cleaning your app caches of junk files and shutting down apps that are draining your battery. It currently has a 4.7 rating in the Play store.
- CPU Monitor By System Monitor Tool Labs — The CPU Monitor app measures different aspects of your Android phone to improve the performance. It performs tasks like monitoring the battery, checking for overheating, and keeping track of RAM usage. It currently has a 4.4 rating in the Play store.
- All Router Setup By AnnSoft07 — The app gives you a full view of your current router settings and gives you control of your WiFi Network. You get quick access to your admin panel, can uncover default passwords of common routers, and view information about your WiFi connection, including its current strength. It currently has a 4.4 rating in the Play store.
- WiFi Mobile Network Speed By Veloxity Inc. — The app functions as a personal WiFi assistant to help you manage your WiFi connections. It performs tasks like checking signal strength, cleaning your Home WiFi channel, and switching you to the best network. It currently has a 4.4 rating in the Play store.
8. Replace Your Router
If all else fails, think about replacing your current WiFi router. You should consider replacing your router every three to four years. Upgrading to a newer router that supports current WiFi standards can improve the WiFi performance on your Android device. Older routers focused on providing a strong signal to traditional computing devices like laptops and desktops. Newer routers have enhanced capabilities when it comes to supporting mobile devices, reducing signal interference, and working with both 2.4G and 5G networks.
We hope one of these tips helps improve the WiFi performance of your Android device!
