Open the app and look for the networks found. You'll see dBm measurements expressed as RSSI.įor Android users, Wi-Fi Analyzer is a step easier. Just go to your iPhone or iPad Settings app (not the app's settings), tap Airport Utility from the list, and then toggle on 'Wi-Fi Scanner.' Now, go back to the Airport Utility app and start a scan. Both are easy to use and show results for any wireless networks in your area.įor iPhone users, the Airport Utility App does require you to go into your device settings and turn on the Wi-Fi scanner. To measure Wi-Fi signal strength on your phone or tablet, you can use the Airport Utility App for iPhone and iPad, or Wi-Fi Analyzer for Android. An excellent connection is -50 dBm, while -60 dBm is likely good enough to stream, handle voice calls, and anything else. However, if you spot a Wi-Fi signal listed at -90, the service is so weak you probably can't connect to that network. If you see -30, you have a 'perfect connection,' and likely, are standing next to the Wi-Fi router. The first thing to know is measurements of dBm will display in negative numbers. A weaker signal, on the other hand, leads to slower speeds, dropouts, and (in some cases) total disconnection. Thicker walls made of denser materials (like concrete) will block a Wi-Fi signal. While 2.4ghz connections broadcast further, they might have interference issues. The closer you are to the router, the better. Wi-Fi signal strength depends on a variety of factors, such as how far you are from the router, whether it's a 2.4 or 5ghz connection, and even the materials of the walls around you. This is what enables you to take full advantage of the internet speeds available to you. Why Wi-Fi Signal Strength MattersĪ stronger Wi-Fi signal means a more reliable connection. Here's how to check your precise Wi-Fi signal strength. Perhaps you're too far from the source, or thick walls are blocking the signal. If your internet seems slow or web pages won't load, the problem could be your Wi-Fi connection.

To get more technical information about your Wi-Fi signal strength, install Airport Utility app on an iPhone or iPad, Wi-Fi Analyzer on Android, or Nirsoft's WifiInfoView on Windows. Look at how many of the curved lines are filled on your device's Wi-Fi symbol: More filled lines indicate a stronger connection.

Windows phone wifi signal strength app