WiFi scanner (to check channels) for iPad?

OCdude · 20 Dec 2016 at 19:40

I'm trying to find an app that'll scan the local WiFi networks so I can try and pick a different WiFi channel, but all the apps I can find only seem to scan the local network (example).

I recall there being 100001 of these apps on Android - i'm hoping it's not some kind of restriction Apple have laid down?

(Oh and the only device I have to use for the scanning is my iPad)

Any tips?

Cheers!

Feek · 20 Dec 2016 at 21:49

There used to be a handful of these on the store but they got pulled ages ago.

Kol · 20 Dec 2016 at 22:04

They recently added the Wifi scan option back into the Airport Utility app. It's not great but it tells you each wifi network's channel and signal strength.

Picks up a good twenty wireless networks in my area so has been useful to find a less congested channel.

It's not pretty like others that give you graphs but it's easy enough.

OCdude · 20 Dec 2016 at 22:27

Thanks guys. Figured as much... grrr!

Will probably just get a Wireless dongle and use my PC instead!

Kol · 20 Dec 2016 at 23:02

Not sure if it wasn't clear but download apples own Airport Utility. It will scan all networks in your location and tell you the channels they are on, not just your local network. So it does exactly what you want just without a graph.

They just added it back in on the latest update.

Cheers.

OCdude · 20 Dec 2016 at 23:05

Kol said:
Not sure if it wasn't clear but download apples own Airport Utility. It will scan all networks in your location and tell you the channels they are on, not just your local network. So it does exactly what you want just without a graph.

They just added it back in on the latest update.

Cheers.

Sorry, forgot to mention - I did try it, but it looks like without an AirPort base station, it doesn't do anything

Kol · 20 Dec 2016 at 23:13

There's a link in the top right says wifi scan. Not appearing? On my phone so can't post a screenshot.

MissChief · 21 Dec 2016 at 00:55

We use this at work all the time. Once you have it on your iPad you need to go into settings on the iPad and enable the Wi-Fi Scan option. It's off by default. Once you've enabled it, go back into Airport utility and tap 'Wi-Fi scan' and then I usually set the duration to 20-30 seconds. Once it's completed tap the blue I in the right hand corner for a list view.

Feek · 21 Dec 2016 at 02:18

Oh that's a nice touch.

OCdude · 21 Dec 2016 at 13:12

MissChief said:
We use this at work all the time. Once you have it on your iPad you need to go into settings on the iPad and enable the Wi-Fi Scan option. It's off by default. Once you've enabled it, go back into Airport utility and tap 'Wi-Fi scan' and then I usually set the duration to 20-30 seconds. Once it's completed tap the blue I in the right hand corner for a list view.

Perfect, thanks!

Would never thought to look there had you not mentioned it!

Andybtsn · 21 Dec 2016 at 13:15

Can I ask what the results will help with?

I am having some issues at home with access points currently and I think it could be down to channels, if I use this WIFI scanner what am I looking for to help me choose the correct channel for each AP?

Nikumba · 22 Dec 2016 at 13:39

Andybtsn said:
Can I ask what the results will help with?

I am having some issues at home with access points currently and I think it could be down to channels, if I use this WIFI scanner what am I looking for to help me choose the correct channel for each AP?

In the UK we have channels 1-13 I believe what you want to look for is a channel that doesn't have many networks broadcasting in.