How to use Android Phone as a WiFi Repeater: 5 Effective Methods

Having a stable and reliable WiFi connection is crucial for seamless work and connectivity. However, poor WiFi coverage or frequent disconnections can be a common problem.

While WiFi repeaters are available in the market as a solution, there’s an alternative– using your Android phone as a WiFi repeater. In this article, I will talk about five effective methods on “How to use Android Phone as a WiFi Repeater”, ensuring you stay connected without the need for additional investments.

How to use Android Phone as a WiFi Repeater

Before we get into the methods of using your Android phone as a WiFi repeater, let’s understand the concept. Essentially, your Android device can act as a bridge between your existing WiFi network and another device, thereby extending the WiFi coverage area. This is particularly useful in situations where you have a weak signal in a specific room or area.

Method 1: Using Built-in Hotspot Feature

Now all Android devices come with a built-in hotspot feature that allows you to share your mobile data connection with other devices. To use your Android as a WiFi repeater using this method, follow these steps:

1. Go to your phone’s settings.
2. Navigate to the “Network & Internet” or similar option.
3. Select “Hotspot & tethering.”
4. Enable the “WiFi hotspot” option.
5. Connect your other device to this newly created hotspot.

Using this method, you can share your phone’s cellular data connection with other devices while boosting your WiFi signal’s range.

Method 2 – Enable WiFi Coverage Extender From Developer Options

In some cases, your phone may support this feature, but the manufacturer has disabled it. You can enable it via Developer Options:

1. Access Developer Options by tapping the build number seven times in your Android phone’s About phone settings.
2. Scroll to Networking within Developer Options.
3. Enable the “Enable Wi-Fi Coverage Extend Feature” toggle.

Now, try enabling both WiFi and hotspot simultaneously, which should resolve any issues encountered in the first method.

Method 3 – Use the WiFi Repeater App

If the methods mentioned above do not work for your device, don’t lose hope. Third-party apps, such as WiFi Repeater, can come to your rescue and work with Android phones running Android 4.2.2 (JellyBean) and above:

1. Download and install the WiFi Repeater App.
2. Connect your phone to a WiFi network.
3. Open the app and tap the WiFi icon to share the network.
4. Connect your second device (another phone or computer) using the provided password or QR code.

To ensure seamless connectivity, you’ll need to manually configure proxy settings on the second device.

Method 4 – Use Net Share App (No Root)

Net Share is another app that allows you to transform your Android phone into a WiFi repeater, and it doesn’t require root access:

1. Download and install the Net Share No Root Tethering App on both phones.
2. Connect your phone to a WiFi network.
3. Start the WiFi hotspot via the app and grant the necessary permissions.
4. Connect your second device using the provided password.

Remember to enable the WPS toggle within the app on the first phone for smooth operation.

Method 5 – Use the NetBridge App

NetBridge is a convenient app for turning your Android phone into a portable WiFi extender, and it doesn’t need root privileges. It operates on Android 5.0 and above:

1. Download the NetBridge app from the Google Play Store and tap on “Start.”
2. Allow the app the necessary permissions to create a WiFi extender.
3. Connect your second device using the password mentioned in the app settings.

By following these five methods, you can effectively extend your WiFi network using your Android phone, even if it’s an older model. However, keep in mind that using a phone as a repeater may affect network speeds on the second device. It’s ideal for casual work and web browsing but may not be suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities like heavy downloads or video streaming.

Conclusion

Improving your WiFi signal using your Android phone as a WiFi repeater is a practical and cost-effective solution. Whether you choose the straightforward method of using your phone’s hotspot or explore more advanced options like third-party apps and Wi-Fi coverage extender in the developer option, you can enjoy better connectivity throughout your home or office.

Remember to consider your technical expertise and the specific capabilities of your Android device when selecting the most suitable method. With these five effective methods, you can say goodbye to WiFi dead zones and enjoy a seamless online experience. Stay connected, and enjoy the benefits of extended WiFi coverage. For more tech-related insights and tips, stay tuned to Smart Tech Helper.

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