September 28, 2025

How to Add Frequently Used Wi-Fi Network: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hello everyone. Quick question, when I am out and about in public I turn my Wi-Fi off.

What you’ll build / learn

In this tutorial, you will learn how to add frequently used Wi-Fi networks to your device, ensuring that your phone automatically connects to your home network whenever you return. This process will cover the necessary steps to access your Wi-Fi settings, add a new network, and adjust any relevant settings to make your device more efficient in connecting to Wi-Fi. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how to manage your Wi-Fi networks, allowing for seamless internet access at home.

Additionally, you will learn about the importance of prioritising your home network over public networks, which can lead to better security and performance. This tutorial will also touch on troubleshooting techniques to resolve issues that may arise when your device fails to connect automatically to your preferred Wi-Fi network.

Ultimately, this guide aims to empower you with the knowledge to take control of your home Wi-Fi settings, ensuring that you can enjoy a reliable internet connection whenever you need it.

Why it matters

Managing your Wi-Fi settings is essential for a smooth and efficient online experience. When your device automatically connects to your home network, it saves you the hassle of manually searching for networks and entering passwords each time you return home. This is particularly important for those who rely on the internet for work or leisure activities, as interruptions can lead to decreased productivity and enjoyment.

Furthermore, understanding how to manage your Wi-Fi connections can enhance your device’s security. Public Wi-Fi networks often pose risks, such as data interception and malware attacks. By ensuring your device prioritises your home network, you reduce the chances of connecting to unsecured networks, thus protecting your personal information and online activities.

Lastly, being knowledgeable about your device’s Wi-Fi settings allows you to troubleshoot connectivity issues effectively. When you encounter problems, knowing how to access and adjust your Wi-Fi settings can save you time and frustration, enabling you to get back online quickly.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following prerequisites in place. First, you will need a smartphone or tablet that supports Wi-Fi connectivity. This guide primarily focuses on Android devices, but the steps are similar for iOS devices as well.

Second, make sure you have access to your home Wi-Fi network’s name (SSID) and password. If you are unsure of these details, you can typically find them on the back of your router or in the router’s settings interface.

Lastly, ensure your device’s software is up to date. Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and may hinder your ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks effectively. Check for updates in your device’s settings before proceeding with the tutorial.

Step-by-step

Unlock your device and go to the home screen. Locate the ‘Settings’ app, which is usually represented by a gear icon.
In the Settings menu, scroll down until you find the ‘Connections’ or ‘Network & Internet’ option. Tap on it to access network settings.
Look for the ‘Wi-Fi’ option in the Connections menu. Tap on it to view available Wi-Fi networks.
Ensure that Wi-Fi is turned on. If it is off, toggle the switch to enable it. Your device will start scanning for available networks.
Find your home Wi-Fi network in the list of available networks. If you do not see it, ensure your router is powered on and broadcasting.
Once you locate your home network, tap on it. If it is secured, you will be prompted to enter the password.
Enter the Wi-Fi password carefully, ensuring that you input the correct characters. Tap ‘Connect’ to establish the connection.
After a successful connection, you should see a notification indicating that you are connected to the network. You can now adjust additional settings if necessary.
To set your home network as a priority, go back to the Wi-Fi settings and tap on the network name. Look for an option that says ‘Forget’ or ‘Manage Network’ and ensure it is set to connect automatically.
Consider disabling automatic connections to public networks if you wish to avoid unwanted connections. This can usually be found in the Wi-Fi settings under ‘Advanced’ options.
Test your connection by turning off Wi-Fi and then turning it back on. Your device should automatically reconnect to your home network without needing to re-enter the password.
If you encounter issues, revisit the Wi-Fi settings and ensure your network is saved correctly. You can also restart your device or router as a troubleshooting step.

Best practices & security

When managing your Wi-Fi networks, it is essential to follow best practices to ensure both connectivity and security. First, always use a strong, unique password for your home Wi-Fi network. Avoid using easily guessable passwords, such as ‘123456’ or ‘password’, as these can leave your network vulnerable to unauthorised access.

Additionally, consider changing your Wi-Fi password periodically. This practice can help protect your network from potential intrusions, especially if you suspect that someone may have gained access to your password. Regularly updating your password is a simple yet effective way to enhance your network security.

Furthermore, disable the broadcasting of your network’s SSID if you want to keep it hidden from casual users. This means that your network will not appear in the list of available networks, requiring users to know the exact name to connect. However, be aware that this may complicate the connection process for legitimate devices.

Common pitfalls & troubleshooting

One common issue users face is their device failing to connect to their home Wi-Fi automatically. This can often be resolved by ensuring that the network is saved correctly in the device settings. If your device does not remember the network, you may need to forget the network and reconnect, entering the password again.

Another pitfall is connecting to public Wi-Fi networks inadvertently. To avoid this, make sure to adjust your device’s settings to prevent automatic connections to unfamiliar networks. This setting can usually be found in the Wi-Fi settings under ‘Advanced’ options.

Lastly, if you experience slow internet speeds or intermittent connectivity, consider restarting your router. Sometimes, routers can become overloaded or require a refresh to function optimally. If issues persist, check for firmware updates for your router, as manufacturers often release updates to improve performance and security.

Alternatives & trade-offs

Option	Pros	Cons
Using a Wi-Fi extender	Increases coverage area	May reduce speed
Switching to a mesh network	Seamless coverage	Higher initial cost
Using mobile data	Portable and convenient	Data limits and costs
Using a VPN	Enhanced security	Can slow down connection

When considering alternatives to your current Wi-Fi setup, there are several options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, using a Wi-Fi extender can help increase coverage in larger homes, but it may also reduce the overall speed of your connection. This trade-off is essential to consider if you prioritise speed over coverage.

Another option is switching to a mesh network, which provides seamless coverage throughout your home. While this solution can be more effective in eliminating dead zones, it typically comes with a higher initial cost compared to traditional routers. Assessing your specific needs and budget will help determine the best alternative for your situation.

What the community says

Community feedback on Wi-Fi management often highlights the importance of understanding device settings. Many users appreciate the ability to troubleshoot connectivity issues independently, especially when they can resolve problems without needing to contact technical support. Forums and discussion boards frequently feature tips on optimising Wi-Fi settings for various devices, showcasing the collective knowledge of users.

Additionally, users often share their experiences with different routers and extenders, providing insights into which products offer the best performance and reliability. This information can be invaluable for those considering upgrades or changes to their home networking setup.

Overall, the community emphasises the significance of staying informed about Wi-Fi technology and best practices. Engaging with online forums can lead to valuable learning opportunities and help users make better decisions regarding their home networks.

FAQ

Q: Why does my device not automatically connect to my home Wi-Fi anymore?

A: If your device is not automatically connecting to your home Wi-Fi, it may be due to incorrect settings. Check if the network is saved correctly and ensure that the option to connect automatically is enabled. You may need to forget the network and reconnect to fix the issue.

Q: How can I improve my Wi-Fi signal strength at home?

A: To improve your Wi-Fi signal strength, consider repositioning your router to a central location in your home, away from walls and obstructions. You may also want to invest in a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network to enhance coverage in larger areas.

Q: Is it safe to connect to public Wi-Fi networks?

A: Connecting to public Wi-Fi networks can pose security risks, such as data interception. It’s advisable to use a VPN when accessing public networks to protect your personal information and online activities. Always avoid accessing sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi.

Q: How often should I change my Wi-Fi password?

A: It is recommended to change your Wi-Fi password every few months or if you suspect that someone may have gained access to your network. Regularly updating your password helps to maintain the security of your home network.

Q: What should I do if my router is not working properly?

A: If your router is not functioning correctly, try restarting it by unplugging it for a few seconds and then plugging it back in. If issues persist, check for firmware updates or consider resetting the router to factory settings as a last resort.

Q: Can I connect multiple devices to my home Wi-Fi?

A: Yes, most home routers can support multiple devices simultaneously. However, each connected device may impact the overall speed and performance of your network, especially if they are all using bandwidth-intensive applications.

Source

For further details, visit the original discussion on Reddit: How to Add Frequently Used Wi-Fi Network.