You usually do not need to change a phone from Wi-Fi to WLAN: in this context, both labels refer to wireless networking. Open your phone’s network settings, choose the network name, and enter its password if prompted. The setting is called Internet on many Android phones and Wi-Fi on iPhone.
Why your phone says Wi-Fi instead of WLAN
Wi-Fi and WLAN are two labels you may see for wireless networking. They do not represent two phone modes that you need to convert between. To join a wireless network, use the network controls already built into your phone; the wording and menu layout depend on the device and software version.
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Connect or switch networks on Android
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network & internet, then Internet. Some manufacturers use different labels or arrange these menus differently.
- Tap the network name you want to join. Enter its password if requested.
To switch networks more quickly, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Internet, and choose another listed network. Google notes that this quick-panel preference is saved temporarily. To disconnect, go to Settings > Network & internet > Internet, open the Wi-Fi settings beside the connected network, and tap Disconnect. Some steps in Google’s instructions apply only to Android 12 or later. Its guidance also uses a fuller Wi-Fi icon to indicate a stronger signal. Google’s Android Wi-Fi instructions provide additional details.
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Connect or switch networks on iPhone
- Open Settings and tap Wi-Fi.
- Turn on Wi-Fi if it is off, then wait for available networks to appear.
- Tap the network you want to join. Enter its password or accept any terms if prompted.
A checkmark beside the network name indicates that the iPhone is connected. Apple’s steps also apply to iPad. See Apple’s instructions for connecting to Wi-Fi.
#1 Best Overall
- DUAL-BAND WIFI 6 ROUTER: Wi-Fi 6(802.11ax) technology achieves faster speeds, greater capacity and reduced network congestion compared to the previous gen. All WiFi routers require a separate modem. Dual-Band WiFi routers do not support the 6 GHz band.
- AX1800: Enjoy smoother and more stable streaming, gaming, downloading with 1.8 Gbps total bandwidth (up to 1200 Mbps on 5 GHz and up to 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz). Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
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If the phone will not connect
Start with checks that do not erase saved settings:
- Make sure Wi-Fi is on and Airplane Mode is off.
- Move within range of the network.
- Check whether other devices can connect to that network, and whether your phone can connect to a different one.
- If only one network is affected, verify its password and check its router or network settings. For a school or workplace network, contact the administrator.
Apple also advises checking that the router is powered on, its firmware is up to date, and its compatibility, range, and available frequency bands are suitable. Its Wi-Fi connection troubleshooting guide explains these checks.
Rank #2
- Dual-band Wi-Fi with 5 GHz speeds up to 867 Mbps and 2.4 GHz speeds up to 300 Mbps, delivering 1200 Mbps of total bandwidth¹. Dual-band routers do not support 6 GHz. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
- Covers up to 1,000 sq. ft. with four external antennas for stable wireless connections and optimal coverage.
- Supports IGMP Proxy/Snooping, Bridge and Tag VLAN to optimize IPTV streaming
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
- Advanced Security with WPA3 - The latest Wi-Fi security protocol, WPA3, brings new capabilities to improve cybersecurity in personal networks
Use Reset Network Settings only as a later step
On an iPhone, resetting network settings removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, along with cellular, VPN, and APN settings. You may need to reconnect and enter network details afterward. If the phone is managed by a school or employer, ask the administrator before resetting. Apple includes the reset option in its Wi-Fi troubleshooting steps.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Dual band router upgrades to 1200 Mbps high speed internet (300mbps for 2.4GHz plus 900Mbps for 5GHz), reducing buffering and ideal for 4K stream
- Full Gigabit Ports - Gigabit Router with 4 Gigabit LAN ports, ideal for any internet plan and allow you to directly connect your wired devices
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- MU-MIMO technology - (5GHz band) allows high speeds for multiple devices simultaneously
- Access Point Mode - Supports AP Mode to transform your wired connection into wireless network, an ideal wireless router for home
Rank #4
- 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞-𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟕: Powered by Wi-Fi 7 technology, enjoy faster speeds with Multi-Link Operation, increased reliability with Multi-RUs, and more data capacity with 4K-QAM, delivering enhanced performance for all your devices.
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- 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫 - Covers up to 2,000 sq. ft. for up to 60 devices at a time. 4 internal antennas and beamforming technology focus Wi-Fi signals toward hard-to-reach areas. Seamlessly connect phones, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Rank #3
- NIGHTHAWK WIFI 6 ROUTER FOR YOUR WHOLE HOME: Delivers fast, reliable WiFi across every room of your apartment or small home for streaming, gaming, video calls, and smart home devices, all running at the same time without slowing each other down.
- WORKS WITH YOUR EXISTING INTERNET SERVICE: Pairs with your existing modem or gateway via ethernet. Compatible with most cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite providers. Some gateways and modem router combos may require bridge mode. No coax needed.
- SET UP AND MANAGE YOUR NETWORK WITH THE NIGHTHAWK APP: Download the free Nighthawk app on iOS or Android for guided setup. Manage WiFi, run speed tests, pause devices, and set up guest networks from anywhere. Active internet required.
- READY FOR THE DEVICES YOU ALREADY OWN: Your phones, laptops, and TVs work right out of the box. WiFi 6 delivers speeds up to 1.8 Gbps across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Backward compatible with WiFi 5 and earlier.
- COVERAGE IN EVERY ROOM: Covers up to 1,500 sq. ft. for up to 20 connected devices. Walls, floors, and interference can reduce range. Larger or multi-story homes may benefit from a NETGEAR Orbi mesh WiFi system.
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