Connecting to the Internet - Running Android: Using Your Phone and Tablet for Work and Play - page 32

Wi-Fi Finder with local free and paid hotspots
Other Wi-Fi Apps
Speedtest ( http://bit.ly/1439Hxt ) lets you test the speed of your Internet connection. This
is especially useful if you have a choice of more than one Wi-Fi network, or you suspect
there are problems with the network you're using.
Wi-Fi Analyzer ( http://bit.ly/1aIftMv ) lets you look at the Wi-Fi networks around you in
several useful ways.
You can display a channel graph, which shows all the networks in range by channel and
signal strength. Wi-Fi automatically chooses between 14 different radio channels and usu-
ally picks the least busy channel. However, if signals are weak and there are many Wi-Fi
networks in range, two or more networks may occupy the same channel. The channel graph
clearly shows this and helps you choose a network with the strongest signal and least inter-
ference.
A time graph shows Wi-Fi network signal strength over time. This will be useful if you're
in a dense urban area with many Wi-Fi hotspots and you're trying to find the best one. It
can also alert you to problems with a Wi-Fi hotspot you're already using.
The channel rating screen is especially useful in finding the best channel for your home
Wi-Fi network, or any network where you have control of the wireless router. From this
screen, tap the Menu icon and select your network. The channel ratings are now shown for
all channels. If you want, you can change the channel used by your Wi-Fi access point to
the best channel shown. The method for doing this depends on your specific Wi-Fi access
point- check its manual for instructions. Also, you should check the recommended channel
several times during the day, especially in residential areas. Some people turn their Wi-Fi
access points off when they're not home, so the best channel can vary.
The AP list shows a list of Wi-Fi hotspots in graphic form with signal strength bars. You
can tap on a hotspot to connect directly to it. This requires another app by the same deve-
loper, Wi-Fi Connector ( http://bit.ly/18s6AkA ). If it's not installed, you'll be asked if you
want to install it.
The last view, signal meter, shows an analog meter view of the network that your phone or
tablet is currently using.