This article explains how to connect your Android device to a Wi-Fi network. Instructions apply to devices from any manufacturer with Android 10, 9.0 Pie, or 8.0 Oreo, but the process for other Android versions is similar.
Turn On Wi-Fi On Android 9.0 and Up
Here's how to make sure that Wi-Fi is turned on:
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Open the Settings app.
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Tap Network & Internet.
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In the Network & Internet section, select Wi-Fi.
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Turn on the Wi-Fi toggle switch.
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Close the Settings app.
Alternatively, swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the Wi-Fi icon if it's greyed out. To open the Wi-Fi settings, tap and hold the Wi-Fi icon.
Turn on Wi-Fi on Android 8.0
The process for enabling Wi-Fi and adjusting settings is different for Android 8.0. Here's how to open the Wi-Fi settings on these devices:
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Open Settings.
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Tap Connections or Wireless & Networks.
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Tap Wi-Fi to open the Wi-Fi settings.
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Under Wi-Fi settings, turn on the Wi-Fi toggle switch.
Connect to a Wi-Fi Network
Once Wi-Fi is enabled, go to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi to see a list of nearby networks to which you can connect.
![Turning on Wi-Fi and choosing a network on Android](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/gOkeyprUq0Z3XI_OpULTkw3-K7Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/androidwifi-bcada8836c314cc5ad090ff827131320.jpg)
What to Consider Before Connecting
A network with a lock icon is secured and requires a password; it's preferable to an unsecured one because it's less vulnerable to intruders. If you must connect to an unsecured Wi-Fi network, use a firewall or antivirus app. Consider using a VPN, as well.
Don't use an unsecured network for private browsing activities, such as accessing a bank account and logging in to your online user accounts.
Choose the strongest network available. The estimated signal strength displays next to each Wi-Fi network. The darker the icon or the more bars that display, the stronger the network signal is.
View Details About the Wi-Fi Connection
After your Android is connected to Wi-Fi, you can view details about the connection by tapping the network name and then tapping Advanced.
![Wi-Fi connection details on Android](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/vM50HqXGqdmmlw0Uwj7-fstQyTk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/wifiadvanced-7e788b2ecc0145178b8f9266e7a7d626.jpg)
This interface varies slightly with Android version.
Get Notified About Open Wi-Fi Networks
You can set up your Android to automatically tell you when a network is available, as long as Wi-Fi is turned on (even if not connected). Here's how:
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Tap Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi.
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Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner and then tap Advanced.
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Turn on the Open network notification or Wi-Fi notifications toggle switch.
Choosing the Right Network
If you're connecting to your home Wi-Fi network, you can find the default SSID and password on the bottom of your router or in the documents your ISP provided at signup. To connect to a network that isn't yours, ask the owner for the name and Wi-Fi password.