How to Improve WIFI Signal on Android Devices: An Easy Guide

How to improve WIFI signal on Android phones or tablets

A weak WIFI signal and slow internet speed can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to stream a video, play a game online, or work from home. But there are a few things you can do to boost WIFI signal on phone or tablets and speed up the internet speed. Learn how to improve WIFI signal on Android phones and tablets.

Improve the WIFI signal on Android with a simple fix

Step 1: Restart your router and device

  • Open Settings on your Android device and Turn off the WIFI and then back on again.
  • Forget the network and add it back.
    • Open Settings, WIFI
    • Touch and hold (long touch) the network name, Touch on Forget
    • Add the network back into your phone or tablet
  • Reset the router and modem by turning them both off and back on again.

Step 2: Move closer to the router

The closer you are to the router, the stronger the WIFI signal will be. If possible, move your Android device closer to the router to improve the signal.

Step 3: Remove obstacles between your device and the router

Router placement is important so you don’t block the signal coming from the router. Walls, furniture, and other objects can block the WIFI signal. Remove any obstacles between your device and the router to improve the signal. Check the router placement.

  • Do not put the router near electrical equipment, TV, electric fan, audio system, radio, etc.
  • Locate the router in a centralized location. Such as the middle of the house or office. Don’t put the router in a corner, or in the basement, or on a top floor.
  • Do not put the router on the floor. The best option is to locate the router about 2 meters above the floor.

Step 4: Update your Android device’s software

Software updates often include security patches and bug fixes that can improve your device’s performance, including WIFI performance. Make sure your Android device is running the latest software version.

Step 5: Change your WIFI channel

If there are a lot of other WIFI networks in your area, changing your WIFI channel can help improve your signal. To change your WIFI channel, you’ll need to log in to your router’s settings. Consult your router’s manual for instructions on how to do this.

Step 6: Use a WIFI extender

improve wifi signal on android

If you have a large home or office, a WIFI extender can help boost the signal to all areas. A WIFI extender works by repeating the signal from your router and extending its range to other rooms or areas.

Step 7: Use a wired connection

If possible, use a wired connection instead of WIFI. A wired connection will always be faster and more reliable than WIFI.

Step 8: Be aware of how many connected devices are using the WIFI network

Too many devices competing for the internet’s attention can slow everyone down. Especially if you have people streaming video or downloading a large file.

Step 9: Do a firmware update on your router

Log into your router and check to see if an firmware update is available.

Improve the WIFI signal on Android by changing the DNS setting

The DNS setting is set automatically by your ISP (Internet Service Provider). There may be a better DNS setting that will give you a stronger signal. How to Change the DNS on Android Phones and Tablets?

Improve your WIFI network to make a weak WIFI signal stronger

A weak WIFI signal is a hardware issue and cannot be solved by throwing more software at it.  The best, and only reliable way, to boost a WIFI signal is to add a repeater into the network.  You can get a WIFI repeater, also known as a Range Extender, to increase the signal strength and expand the coverage.  Place the extender box somewhere between the existing WIFI generator, where there is a strong signal, and where you need the signal to be stronger.  The WIFI repeater will extent the signal strength to all devices that are connected to the WIFI connection.

improve wifi signal on android
Mesh whole home WIFI network

Add a Mesh WIFI network to your home or office

There is some newer technology that replaces your existing WIFI router with a whole home mesh WIFI network. A mesh WIFI network uses beacons strategically placed around your home or office.  The beacons transmit a signal that covers every dead space in your work area. The beacons communicate with each other to maintain a complete WIFI coverage.

Mesh WIFI is a whole home or office WIFI system built to eliminate dead zones and to provide uninterrupted WIFI throughout your home. Mesh routers enable devices in your network to have faster speeds, greater coverage, and a more reliable connection. While traditional routers broadcast WIFI from a single point, mesh WIFI systems have multiple access points.

Common problems and solutions to improve WIFI signal on Android:

Problem: The WIFI signal is weak or unstable.

Solution:

  • Move closer to the router.
  • Remove any obstacles between you and the router.
  • Avoid using WIFI in areas with a lot of interference, such as near microwaves or cordless phones.
  • Restart your router and your Android device.
  • Check for and install any available software updates for your router and your Android device.
  • Try using a different WIFI channel. You can use a WIFI analyzer app to find the best channel for your area.
  • Upgrade your router firmware.
  • Try using a WIFI extender or mesh network system to boost the signal in your home.

Problem: The WIFI connection is slow.

Solution:

  • Check the speed of your internet connection. You can do this by running a speed test online. If your internet connection is slow, contact your internet service provider.
  • Try restarting your router and your Android device.
  • Close any apps that you are not using.
  • Try connecting to a different WIFI network.
  • If you are using a public WIFI network, try using a VPN to encrypt your traffic.

Frequently asked questions and answers to improve WIFI signal on Android:

Q: Why is my WIFI signal weak on my Android device?

There are a number of reasons why your WIFI signal may be weak on your Android device, including:

  • You may be too far away from your router.
  • There may be obstacles between your device and your router, such as walls, furniture, or appliances.
  • There may be other devices on your network that are interfering with your WIFI signal.
  • Your router may be outdated or not powerful enough to cover your home or office.
  • Your Android device’s WIFI antenna may be damaged.

Q: How can I improve the WIFI signal on my Android device?

There are a number of things you can do to improve the WIFI signal on your Android device, including:

  • Move closer to your router.
  • Remove any obstacles between your device and your router.
  • Restart your router and your Android device.
  • Update your router’s firmware to the latest version.
  • Upgrade to a newer router that supports WIFI 6 or WIFI 6E.
  • Use a WIFI range extender or mesh WIFI system to boost your WIFI signal in areas where it is weak.
  • Change your WIFI channel to a less congested channel.
  • Use a WIFI analyzer app to identify areas where your WIFI signal is weak and to find the best channel to use.

Q: What are some tips for choosing a WIFI range extender or mesh WIFI system?

When choosing a WIFI range extender or mesh WIFI system, consider the following factors:

  • The size and layout of your home or office.
  • The number of devices you have connected to your network.
  • Your budget.

If you have a large home or office with many devices connected to your network, you will need a more powerful WIFI range extender or mesh WIFI system.

Q: What should I do if I am still having trouble with my WIFI signal?

If you are still having trouble with your WIFI signal after trying the above tips, you may want to contact your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance. Your ISP may be able to help you troubleshoot your WIFI network and identify the best solution for your needs.

Additional helpful tips:

  • Keep your Android device’s software up to date.
  • Avoid using too many devices on the same WIFI network at the same time.
  • If you are using a WIFI extender or mesh network system, make sure that it is properly configured.

Here is some information about How to Connect to a WIFI Hotspot?