A slow mobile network can be one of the most frustrating experiences for any smartphone user. Even with the latest 4G or 5G technology, you may sometimes face poor signal strength, buffering, or dropped calls. But the good news is that there are several effective ways to boost your 4G/5G network speed using your Android phone settings and smart techniques.

In this article, we’ll discuss practical tricks, settings tweaks, and hidden tips that can improve your mobile internet performance without using any third-party apps.

1. Check Your Network Mode Settings

Your Android phone automatically switches between network modes like 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G depending on the signal strength. However, sometimes the device gets stuck in a slower network.

How to Fix It:

• Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Preferred Network Type

• Select 4G/5G Auto or 5G Only (if available)

• Restart your device

This ensures your phone stays connected to the fastest available network.

Pro Tip: If 5G is unstable in your area, switching temporarily to 4G may provide better consistency.

2. Enable VoLTE and VoWiFi (If Supported)

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) allows better call quality and keeps your data connection active during calls. VoWiFi (Wi-Fi Calling) improves connectivity in areas with weak signals.

Steps:

• Open Settings > SIM & Network > SIM Settings

• Turn on VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling

This feature helps maintain stable connections and faster browsing while calling.

3. Keep Your SIM Slot Clean and in the Right Position

Dust or improper placement of your SIM card can cause poor network reception.

Steps to Check:

• Power off your phone and remove the SIM card.

• Clean it gently with a soft cloth.

• Reinsert it properly into the primary SIM slot (SIM 1) for better signal detection.

Phones often prioritize SIM 1 for stronger LTE or 5G performance.

4. Update Your Device Software Regularly

Manufacturers release software updates that include network optimization patches. If your phone is using outdated software, it may not connect efficiently to 4G or 5G networks.

How to Update:

• Go to Settings > System > Software Update

• Tap Check for Updates and install if available.

Keeping your Android OS updated ensures compatibility with the latest carrier frequencies and improves overall performance.

5. Reset Network Settings

If you’ve been facing consistent slow network speeds, a network reset can help by clearing old configurations.

Steps:

• Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth

• Confirm reset and restart your phone

This process won’t delete your personal data, but it will remove saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth pairings.

6. Use Airplane Mode Trick

Sometimes your mobile network gets stuck on a poor cell tower. Toggling Airplane Mode forces your phone to reconnect to the nearest and strongest tower.

Quick Fix:

• Swipe down your quick panel and turn Airplane Mode ON

• Wait for 10 seconds, then turn it OFF

Your network connection will refresh and often show improved signal strength.

7. Clear Cache and Background Apps

Heavy background apps consume network bandwidth and slow down data speed.

To Fix:

• Go to Settings > Storage > Cached Data and clear it.

• Open Recent Apps and close unnecessary ones.

You can also use Data Saver Mode to restrict background data usage by apps that run silently.

8. Switch to a Different APN (Access Point Name)

The APN controls how your phone connects to your mobile network. Sometimes, using the correct APN or creating a new one can improve speed and reliability.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Access Point Names

2. Select your SIM and tap on your carrier’s APN.

3. Compare with your carrier’s official APN settings (available on their website).

4. If needed, create a new APN and set it as default.

This trick can dramatically improve connectivity, especially if your old APN was misconfigured.

9. Use Wi-Fi Calling When Signal Is Weak

If your mobile signal is weak but Wi-Fi is available, enable Wi-Fi Calling to make calls and send messages through your internet connection.

Steps:

• Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIM Settings

• Enable Wi-Fi Calling

This prevents dropped calls and ensures you stay connected even in low-signal areas.

10. Avoid Signal Blockers and Interference

Your phone’s signal can weaken due to physical or electronic interference.

Tips:

• Avoid keeping your phone inside metal cases or near large electronic devices.

• Don’t cover your antenna area (usually near the top of the phone) while gaming or watching videos.

• Use your phone near open areas or windows for stronger reception.

If you live in a low-signal area, consider buying a signal booster or repeater that supports your carrier’s band frequency.

11. Use Network Speed Test Apps

Use apps like Speedtest by Ookla, Fast.com, or Network Signal Info to check real-time network performance.

These apps show:

• Download and upload speed

• Ping (latency)

• Signal strength (in dBm)

Monitoring helps you compare different locations and carriers for the best possible signal.

12. Turn Off 5G When Unnecessary

While 5G is faster, it consumes more battery and may have weaker coverage in some areas.

If your area doesn’t have stable 5G, switch to 4G LTE for better reliability.

How to Do It:

• Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Preferred Network Type

• Choose 4G/VoLTE

This can stabilize speed and reduce heating or battery drain.

13. Restart Your Phone Regularly

Restarting your device clears temporary network logs and refreshes your cellular connection. It also helps your phone reconnect to the nearest tower efficiently.

Try restarting your phone once every few days to maintain stable performance.

14. Use Carrier-Specific Tools

Most telecom companies offer their own apps for better connectivity:

• Jio: MyJio App – to check 4G/5G signal quality

• Airtel: Airtel Thanks App – to optimize network settings

• Vi: Vi App – for troubleshooting network issues

These apps can help you report signal problems and receive faster technical support.

15. Bonus: Use External Signal Boosters (Optional)

If your area consistently has poor coverage, consider investing in a 4G/5G signal booster or mobile repeater. These devices amplify your carrier’s signal indoors, providing faster speeds and fewer dropouts.

Ensure the booster you choose supports your carrier’s frequency bands and is legally approved in your country.

Conclusion

Improving your 4G or 5G network speed doesn’t always require expensive tools or apps. With the right Android settings, regular maintenance, and awareness of signal factors, you can easily boost your connection quality and enjoy smoother streaming, gaming, and browsing.

Start by updating your software, resetting your network settings, and using the Airplane Mode trick. Combine these tips with good device care, and your phone will deliver the fast, stable internet performance you expect from modern mobile networks.