WiFi Monitor - Track WiFi performance

Introducing WiFi Monitor

WiFi Monitor is an advanced tool that lets you analyze the status of WiFi networks and monitor various parameters like signal strength, frequency, and connection speed. It proves beneficial for configuring a wireless router and keeping track of Wi-Fi usage. Additionally, it serves as a scanner to identify devices connected to WLAN.

Features

The app allows to:

• monitor current Wi‑Fi network state (IDs, link speed, signal strength, frequency, channel, security parameters, etc);

• check a list of available Wi‑Fi networks and its parameters;

• display signal strength chart for surrounding networks;

• display current Wi‑Fi connection speed chart.

Interface Instructions

Connection tab

The first tab displays information about the connected Wi‑Fi network. The following information can be found here:

• SSID (Service Set Identification) — informal (human) name of the Wi‑Fi network.

• BSSID (Basic Service Set Identification) — MAC-address of the wireless access point (6 bytes).

• Manufacturer — the manufacturer of the wireless access point or router (defined by the first 3 bytes of BSSID).

• Link speed — maximum link speed.

• Current speed — real speed in the connected network.

• Frequency — frequency used in the connected nettwork (not available on some phones).

• Channel — a number of Wi‑Fi channel (not available on some phones).

• RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) — access point signal strength measured in dBm (Decibel-milliwatts). Strength varies from ‑150 dBm (weak signal) to ‑30 dBm (strong signal).

• Capabilities — security protocols used in the connected network (WEP/WPA/WPA2).

Networks tab

Networks tab displays all available Wi‑Fi networks and their parameters. The networks list can be short or detailed depending on the app's preferences.

If a Wi‑Fi network is build on several access points then data about all its parts is grouped together.

Channels tab

A chart on this tab shows spectrum of network signals and helps to estimate mutual impact of networks on neighboring channels.

Buttons in the bottom of a screen allow to select Wi-Fi band: 2 GHz or 5 GHz.

Strength tab

Strength chart shows the changes of strength level of available Wi‑Fi networks. The chart is updated every second.

Speed tab

Speed chart displays the changes of uplink and downlink speed of a Wi‑Fi connection. It is also updated every second.

Network scanning

Network scanning section provides information about devices connected to the current Wi‑Fi network. This section can be opened by clicking on the left button of the app bar.

What’s the top WiFi analyzer tool for Android?

Best Software (Mac, Windows, iOS)

5 min read · Jun 11, 2024

Hey everyone, I’m having issues with my home WiFi and need to optimize my network. Can anyone recommend the best WiFi analyzer app for Android? I’d appreciate your suggestions and experiences! Thanks!

Best WiFi Analyzer Tool for Android — Optimize Your Home Network

Hey there! I totally get your struggle with home WiFi issues; they can be a real headache. But don’t worry, there’s a solution that can help you optimize your network and get things running smoothly. When it comes to WiFi analyzer tools for Android, one name stands out for its comprehensive features and ease of use: NetSpot.

Why Use a WiFi Analyzer Tool?

WiFi analyzer apps are invaluable for troubleshooting and optimizing your network. They help you:

- Identify signal strength in different areas of your home

- Find the best spot for your router

- Detect WiFi interference from other devices or networks

- Suggest the best WiFi channels to use

With these capabilities, you can turn a frustrating WiFi experience into a smooth, high-speed connection.

Why NetSpot?

You might be asking, “Why NetSpot?” Here’s why:

- User-Friendly Interface: NetSpot offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible even for those who aren’t very tech-savvy.

- Detailed Analysis: It provides in-depth information about your network’s signal strength, noise levels, and more.

- Wireless Network Planning: You can plan your WiFi coverage area and ensure there are no dead zones.

- Real-Time Updates: Monitor changes in your WiFi environment as they happen.

- Cross-Platform Support: Besides Android, NetSpot is also available for macOS and Windows, which means you can analyze your network on multiple devices.

NetSpot really stands out for providing all these features in one neat package.

How to Optimize Your Network with NetSpot

Here’s a step-by-step guide to optimizing your WiFi network using NetSpot:

1. Download and Install NetSpot: First, go to their official website to download the app on your Android device.

2. Perform a Scan: Open the app and perform an initial scan to see your current network situation — NetSpot will show you a detailed map of your WiFi signal strength throughout your home.

3. Identify Weak Spots: Check the areas with the weakest signal. These are your WiFi dead zones or areas where the signal is significantly degraded.

4. Move Your Router: Based on the scan, try relocating your router to a more central location. NetSpot will help you find the optimal placement.

5. Change WiFi Channels: The app can identify if there are other networks interfering with yours. If so, switch your router to a less congested channel.

6. Adjust Antennas and Devices: Sometimes the position of your router’s antennas or even the presence of devices can affect signal strength. Small adjustments here can make a big difference.

7. Re-Scan and Optimize Further: After making adjustments, re-scan your network to see the new signal map. Continue tweaking until you’re satisfied with the coverage.

Using these steps, you should see a significant improvement in your WiFi performance.

Other Tips

Beyond just using the app, here are a few additional tips to keep your WiFi in top shape:

- Firmware Updates: Always keep your router’s firmware updated. Manufacturers release updates to improve performance and security.

- Quality of Service (QoS): Some routers have a QoS setting that prioritizes bandwidth for certain devices or activities. This can be useful if you’re streaming or gaming.

- Separate SSIDs: If you have a dual-band router, use separate SSIDs for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This can help manage traffic more efficiently.

- Secure Your Network: Make sure your network is secure with a strong password to prevent unauthorized access, which can slow down your connection.

Hope this helps you get the most out of your home WiFi! Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance. Cheers!

FAQ

What features should the best WiFi analyzer app for Android offer?

A top-tier WiFi analyzer app for Android should provide comprehensive network analysis features, including signal strength measurement, channel congestion assessment, network speed testing, and security auditing. Additionally, user-friendly UI, real-time network monitoring, and support for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands are valuable features.

Are there any free WiFi analyzer apps for Android that perform well?

Yes, there are several free WiFi analyzer apps for Android that offer robust functionality. Applications like WiFiman and OpenSignal provide essential network scanning and analysis tools without charge, catering well to both casual users and tech enthusiasts.

Can WiFi analyzer apps for Android help improve my network performance?

Absolutely. WiFi analyzer apps for Android can help pinpoint issues such as channel interference or signal obstructions, enabling you to make informed adjustments and optimize your network settings for better performance.

Is it possible to see who is connected to my network using an Android WiFi analyzer app?

Several WiFi analyzer apps offer the feature to display devices currently connected to your network, often termed as ‘Network Discovery’ or ‘Device List’. This can help you manage your network’s security and recognize any unauthorized connections.

How accurate are the signal strength readings on Android WiFi analyzer apps?

The signal strength readings on Android WiFi analyzer apps are typically quite accurate, providing you with a reliable assessment of signal quality. Accuracy though can be influenced by the device’s hardware and any physical obstructions to the WiFi signal.

Do WiFi analyzer apps for Android require special permissions to work?

Yes, most WiFi analyzer apps for Android require certain permissions to access your device’s WiFi settings and network information. Common permissions include access to location, WiFi connection information, and sometimes storage.

Can I find an Android WiFi analyzer app that supports both smartphone and tablet devices?

Many Android WiFi analyzer apps are designed to work seamlessly on both smartphones and tablets, adjusting their interface to suit the screen size and resolution of your device.

What’s the simplest WiFi analyzer app for Android for beginners to use?

Apps like WiFi Analyzer by Farproc (WiFi Analyzer) are known for their simplicity and ease of use, making them an excellent choice for beginners looking to analyze their WiFi networks without a steep learning curve.

Can an Android WiFi analyzer app help me choose the best channel for my WiFi?

Definitely. One of the primary functions of a WiFi analyzer app is to assess channel usage and suggest the best channel with the least interference, thereby potentially improving your WiFi connection’s quality and speed.

Are there any WiFi analyzer apps for Android specifically tailored for advanced users or IT professionals?

Yes, apps such as WiFi Analyzer Pro and Network Analyzer Pro cater to advanced users and IT professionals by providing detailed analysis tools, including LAN scanning, ping, and traceroute features. These apps offer deeper insights for those with more networking knowledge.