How do I test my WiFi network's signal strength?

While checking how many WiFi bars your phone has will give you a general idea of WiFi strength, we suggest getting a more precise measurement when deciding where to set up your Smart Box or WiFi extender.

WiFi strength is often measured using the unit ‘decibels relative to milliwatts,’ or dBm.

The dBm scale runs from -30 to -90 dBm, with -30 being the maximum WiFi signal strength possible. 

Essentially, the closer your dBm is to 0, the better the signal is. A dBm of -30 to -70 should be sufficient for use with a Smart Box.

To test your WiFi network’s signal strength, we recommend taking your phone, tablet, or laptop to the area where you want to install your Smart Box to determine your WiFi network’s dBm at that location.

Here is how you do that on:

• Android
• PC
• iOS
• Mac