How to Check Your WiFi Signal Strength on Windows 11
Checking how strong your WiFi connection is on Windows 11 isn’t a big hassle, and it’s pretty handy if you’re experiencing issues. You can quickly see if your connection is solid or if it’s struggling—like when streaming keeps buffering or calls drop out. With just a few clicks, you can assess your network status and maybe even troubleshoot those annoying connection problems.
So, if your Netflix stutters or Zoom calls keep cutting out, this might be the reason.
First up, hit the Start button, or if you’re feeling a bit techy, just press Windows + I to open the Settings menu. This is like your PC’s control centre. It’s worth getting comfortable here; it’s where you can fine-tune your settings.
Now, look for the Network & internet section. Everything related to your current internet connection lives here. You’ll find your WiFi, Ethernet, and even mobile data options if you’re using a hotspot. Take a moment to browse around—it’s good to know what’s happening with your network.
If you want more detailed info, type netsh wlan show interfaces into Command Prompt or PowerShell (preferably run as administrator). This command provides real-time stats on your WiFi signal strength.
Next, go back to the Network & internet section and click on Wi-Fi. Here, you’ll see the current network’s signal strength displayed visually — usually with bars. More bars mean a stronger connection; fewer bars could mean it’s time to move closer or check for interference.
A quick glance at those bars can tell you if it’s worth shifting closer to your router or if something’s messing with your WiFi.
When judging your connection, remember: more bars mean a better signal. If the command line shows less than 50% or you only see a couple of bars, consider repositioning your device or router. But if all bars are lit up, you’re in good shape! Keeping an eye on this can save you a lot of headaches.
Advanced Tools to Check Your WiFi Signal Quality
If you want to get more detailed about your WiFi health, Windows 11 offers a built-in Network Diagnostics tool:
- Head to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then launch the Network Adapter troubleshooter.
- Alternatively, right-click the WiFi icon in your system tray and select Troubleshoot problems directly from there.
There are also third-party apps like NetSpot and WiFi Analyzer, which can provide a detailed report — showing exactly where your signal is weak, so you know what to fix.
Keeping your system fully updated is a good first step in maintaining smooth network performance. Plus, if you’re still getting patchy signals, try repositioning your router — keeping it away from walls and electronic devices can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to check your WiFi signal strength in Windows 11 can help you troubleshoot connectivity issues before they become a real headache. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing, it’s useful to understand where you stand. Hopefully, this guide saves you a bit of frustration down the track!
- Open Settings (use Windows + I for a quick shortcut).
- Click on Network & internet for the main network info.
- Go into Wi-Fi to see specific connection details.
- Use the bars or command line info for more exact readings.
- Adjust your setup as needed — move closer to your router or restart your device.
This method has worked across multiple machines — have a go!