If you’re in search of a simple and user-friendly way to analyze the quality of Wi-Fi networks around you, either to enhance your connection or merely extend their range by relocating them, I have just the tool for you.
Meet Homedale, a freeware available for macOS and Windows. Once launched, it scans all the Wi-Fi networks in your vicinity and displays their signal strength. Furthermore, for each detected Wi-Fi network, Homedale provides a wealth of useful information.
Not only does it show you the signal strength in dBm (a unit measuring Wi-Fi signal power in decibels relative to a milliwatt, where higher values indicate a stronger signal), but the application also presents other relevant data such as the channel utilized by each network, crucial for avoiding interferences, for instance, with neighboring Wi-Fi.
Anothe feature of Homedale is its ability to showcase the Wi-Fi standards like 802.11g, 802.11n, etc. used by each network. This information proves particularly valuable in identifying networks that might require hardware updates for performance enhancement. Additionally, you can view a real-time signal strength graph, extremely useful in physically relocating your router or device to achieve the best possible reception.
Moreover, you’ll appreciate the option to export collected data as a CSV file for further analysis with your own tools. Homedale also includes a geolocation feature that, when available, assists in physically locating Wi-Fi networks on a map. This can be particularly beneficial for professionals conducting network audits or for those seeking to optimize Wi-Fi coverage in large spaces.
In summary, if you’re up for trying it out, Homedale is just a click away.
