Remember, signal issues with your WiFi can be a real headache — especially if it’s regularly dropping. The guy above offers some solid tools, but I’d like to add a bit more to the conversation to broaden the scope for solving your problem.
Firstly, Acrylic Wi-Fi Home is another fantastic option if you’re on Windows. It’s not as heavy-duty as some others, but it does an excellent job of identifying networks, their security types, and their signal strengths. It also offers insights into the best channel to use, minimizing interference.
Now, some might argue that Wireshark’s granularity might be a bit overkill for casual users. While it’s undoubtedly powerful, I’d suggest trying something less intense if you’re not keen on diving deep into packets. For most users, that level of detail isn’t necessary to identify common signal issues. Instead of Wireshark, Ekahau Wi-Fi Site Survey is a fantastic middle-ground, offering a detailed, but user-friendly interface to visualize interference and coverage.
For analyzing WiFi signals on mobile, WiFi Analyzer by Farproc (available on Android) works wonders. It’s super user-friendly and gives a clear visual of how each channel is used, making it easier to choose the best one for your home network.
Consider NetSpot Site Survey Software, which @codecrafter mentioned — it’s phenomenal for both pros and novices. The easy-to-use interface and detailed visuals make troubleshooting straightforward. Plus, it’s great on both Windows and macOS, no extra hoops to jump through.
You might also want to explore SpeedTest by Ookla app. Sure, it’s mainly known for measuring your internet speed, but it gives you snapshots of your performance in different spots around your home. While it doesn’t provide the same diagnostics as NetSpot or inSSIDer, knowing your speed in various rooms can highlight areas with weak spots quickly.
Disagreements on placements and hardware need to be considered too. Sometimes, the router’s location is the biggest culprit. High places and central locations usually work best to avoid walls and floors disrupting the signal.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned hardware check. Sometimes, outdated equipment can’t handle modern demands well, causing frequent drops. Consider upgrading your router if it’s been a few years since its purchase.
In a nutshell, diagnosing your WiFi issues may take a combination of software and smart adjustments in your home setup. Apps like Acrylic Wi-Fi Home, NetSpot, WiFi Analyzer, or Ekahau Wi-Fi Site Survey provide excellent diagnostics, but also remember to consider a physical revamp — optimized router positions and potential hardware upgrades.
For a detailed look at NetSpot, visit their official page: https://www.netspotapp.com. Good luck!