How to Connect an Android Phone or Tablet to WiFi
Introduction
1 Credentials
- Wireless Network Name (SSID)
- Wireless Network Key (Password)
Finding Network Credentials
Most wireless routers or gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, check the documentation that came with your device.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.
? Do you know your Wireless Network name (SSID) and Key?
- Wireless Network Name (SSID)
- Wireless Network Key (Password)
Finding Network Credentials
Most wireless routers or gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, check the documentation that came with your device.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.
Depending on what device (Smartphone or Tablet) and which generation you have, the menu theme and options might look slightly different on your screen. However, the steps should be similar across all Android devices and generations.
- Open Settings.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Make sure Wi-Fi is set to On at the top.
- Your Android device will automatically connect to the network if there is no security enabled, or you have connected to it in the past. The Wi-Fi network name will show Connected underneath.
To Connect to a New Network
If you're connecting to a particular Wi-Fi network for the first time:
- Select the connection from the list.
- Enter the password for the network, then select Connect.
To Connect to a Hidden Network
If the Wi-Fi network you wish to connect to is a hidden network, it won't appear in the list of available networks. However, if you know the network's exact name and password, it can be added manually.
- Select Add network.
- Enter the Network Name (also called the SSID) you wish to connect to, the type of Security it uses (usually WPA2), and the Password for the network, then select Save.
If other wireless devices are connected to the network and functioning properly, chances are the router is OK. It's possible there is an environmental issue. Do you have a portable wireless device (Smart Phone, Tablet, Laptop, etc.) that you can put in the same area to test and see if that device's wireless connection still functions as intended in that location?
If you haven't already, please try power cycling the device you're working with.
- Turn off your device.
- Wait ten seconds.
- Turn your device on again.
The device needs to be within a reasonable range of the router in order to connect and have the best connection speeds.
- In general, in most homes, you can be up to 30 feet from your router for a decent connection.
- From 30' to 50' away, the speeds will be slower, and may drop occasionally, but it should be usable.
- Greater than 50' away, and the signal will most likely be too weak to overcome interference. The speeds will be slow, and the connection may be sporadic.
The above numbers are approximates only. Optimal range may vary based on router make and model.
Your router may need to be relocated to a more centralized location in order to provide better coverage for all your devices.
Good Placement
Bad Placement
