Finding wireless network settings on a modern smartphone can turn into a real quest, especially if the device manufacturer has decided to radically change the interface. Users often wonder where the familiar switch went or why the menu looks completely different after the update. In this article we will analyze in detail where are wireless networks on Android, taking into account the differences between versions of the operating system and shells from different brands.
The standard path to accessing communication parameters is usually through the notification curtain, but for deep settings you need to go to the system menu. Understanding the logic of organizing these sections will help you not only turn on Wi-Fi, but also diagnose connection problems that cannot be solved by standard methods.
Classic access through the notification curtain
The fastest way to manage wireless modules is using the quick access panel. Swipe down from the top of the screen to expand the curtain. Here you will see tiled icons responsible for the main functions. Typically, the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules are located in the first or second row.
If you don’t see the icon you need right away, try swiping left or clicking on the edit button (pencil) to add hidden elements to the main panel. In the latest versions Android 14 and One UI Samsung icons can be grouped into folders to save space.
⚠️ Attention: Some manufacturers, such as Xiaomi or Realme, may hide the "mobile data" or "Hotspot" icon in the secondary menu to prevent accidental activation.
Long press on the icon Wi-Fi or Bluetooth in the curtain automatically redirects the user to the appropriate settings section. It's a handy shortcut that eliminates the need to scroll through long lists of menus. Use this method to quickly check the connection status.
If the Wi-Fi icon in the curtain is gray and inactive, try rebooting the device - this often solves the problem of a frozen network driver.
Deep settings in the system menu
To change network parameters, such as MAC address or selecting a frequency range, you need to go to a full settings menu. Navigation here depends on the OS version, but the general principle remains the same. You need to find the section responsible for connections and network.
On pure Android (Pixel, Motorola) the path looks like this: Settings → Network and Internet. In devices from Samsung, the path may be different: Settings → Connections. In the MIUI and ColorOS shells, this section is often called “Wi-Fi” or is located inside the “Additional functions” group.
- 📶 Wi-Fi: The main point for managing your home and public network.
- 📡 Mobile network: SIM card settings, roaming and network types (4G/5G).
- 🔗 Access point: Modem mode for distributing the Internet to other devices.
Inside the Wi-Fi section often advanced settings are hidden. By clicking on the gear next to the connected network, you will see information about connection speed, security, and the ability to use certificates. For older devices, there may also be a setting here WPS, although in new versions of Android it is often disabled for security reasons.
Hidden engineering menus and test modes
Sometimes the standard interface does not provide full control over the radio module. In such cases, hidden engineering menus come to the rescue, accessed through a set of special codes in in the "Phone" application. These menus allow you to carry out detailed diagnostics of antennas.
One of the most popular codes for devices on MediaTek processors is ##3646633##. For Samsung devices, a code *#0011#is often used, which opens the service mode status menu. Here you can see the signal level in dBm, the number of the connected tower and the frequencies used.
##4636##Entering this universal code opens the "Testing" menu, where the "Wi-Fi Information" section is available. Here you can view packet statistics, connection status, and even reset your network settings to a low level. Be extremely careful: changing parameters in these menus without understanding their meaning may lead to loss of connection.
⚠️ Attention: The engineering menu interface differs on different firmwares. If the code does not work, the manufacturer may have blocked access to these functions in your version of the software.
What to do if the code does not work?
If typing the code does not open the menu, try installing the "QuickShortcutMaker" application from the app store. It allows you to create shortcuts for hidden system activities, including engineering menus, even if the coding is blocked by the operator.
Features of interfaces from different manufacturers
Each brand strives to make its shell unique, which often leads to confusion among users who have changed phones. Location logic elements can change dramatically from model to model, even if there is nothing inside same version of Android.
The table below compares the paths to wireless network settings for popular manufacturers. This will help you quickly navigate when switching to a new smartphone.
| Brand / Shell | Path to Wi-Fi | Path to Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung (One UI) | Connections → Wi-Fi | Connections → Bluetooth |
| Xiaomi (MIUI/HyperOS) | Wi-Fi (separate item) | Bluetooth (separate item) |
| Google Pixel (Stock) | Network and Internet → Internet | Connected devices |
| Realme / OPPO | Wi-Fi and Internet | Bluetooth and device |
Please note that in the shell HyperOS from Xiaomi, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth items are placed at the very top of the main settings screen as separate large cards. This is done to simplify access, but sometimes users look for them inside the general “Network” sections.
Remember: in pure Android, settings are grouped logically (Network, Devices), and in Chinese shells they are often displayed in a flat list on the first screen.
Managing networks through search and voice commands
If you don’t If you can find the desired item manually, use the built-in search by settings. This is the most efficient way to navigate the confusing menus of new Android versions. Just enter a query into the search bar at the top of the settings screen.
Enter the word "Wi-Fi", "Wireless" or "Network", and the system will show a direct link to the desired section, no matter how deeply it is hidden. This method works even if the manufacturer has renamed the standard menu items.
You can also use the voice assistant Google Assistant. Say: “Hey Google, turn on your wireless networks” or “Open your Bluetooth settings.” The assistant will execute the command instantly, eliminating the need for manual search. This is especially convenient when your hands are full or the screen does not respond well to touch.
- 🔍 Searching by keywords saves up to 80% of navigation time.
- 🎙️ Voice commands work even when the screen is locked (with settings).
- ⚙️ Direct links from the search lead directly to the desired sub-item, and not to the general one menu.
Diagnostics and resetting network settings
There are situations when the phone sees networks, but does not connect to them, or the Wi-Fi module has simply disappeared from the list of available ones. In this case, the problem may lie in a software configuration failure. The standard solution is resetting network settings.
This operation does not delete your personal data, photos or applications. It returns only Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and mobile network settings to factory defaults. You will have to re-enter your home network passwords and re-pair your watch or headphones.
The path to this function is usually located in the Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile data and Bluetooth settingssection. On Samsung devices, this may look like General settings → Reset → Reset network settings.
⚠️ Attention: After resetting the network settings All saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth connection histories are deleted. Make sure you remember the password for your home network before performing this procedure.
☑️ Checklist before resetting the network
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why did the Wi-Fi icon disappear in the notification shade?
Most often, the icon was accidentally deleted when editing the quick access panel. Go into curtain editing mode and drag the Wi-Fi icon from the list of available elements to the active panel. Also check to see if Power Saver mode is enabled, which may hide some icons.
How to turn on Wi-Fi if the phone screen is broken and does not work?
If the sensor does not work, but there is an image, connect a USB mouse to the phone via an OTG adapter. The mouse cursor will allow you to click on the notification shade and turn on wireless networks. If the screen is black, but the phone works, try connecting a keyboard and using hotkeys or voice control.
Where can I find 5G settings on Android?
5G settings are located inside the "Mobile network" or "SIM cards" section. Select your active SIM card and find "Preferred network type". If your operator and plan support 5G, there will be an option "5G/4G/3G/2G (auto)". If the option is not there, your phone may not support this standard in your region.
Is it possible to hide your Wi-Fi network on your phone?
Android allows you to forget the hidden network, but the function of creating a hidden access point (Hotspot) depends on the manufacturer. In some shells, there is a “Hide device” checkbox in the access point settings. However, hiding the SSID is not a reliable method of protection, since specialists easily detect such networks.
Why does the phone not see the wireless networks of its neighbors?
This may be due to the frequency range. If your neighbor is using a 5GHz network, but your old phone only supports 2.4GHz, you won't see that network. Also check if Airplane mode is enabled and if the MAC address of your device is blocked in the settings of your neighbor’s router.