+++
title = "Wi-Fi tools"
description = "See the networks around you, which Wi-Fi channels are busy, and follow one network's signal as you move."
weight = 6
[extra]
tag = "Wi-Fi tools"
+++
The Wi-Fi tools show what the radio hears **now**: they scan for the networks around you and list them. They do not join anything.
## The menu
Three entries: **Networks nearby**, **Channel occupancy** and **Signal tracker**. Pick one with the arrows and press Enter.
## Networks nearby
A list that refreshes by itself: each network's name (or `(hidden)`), channel, signal in dBm and security. The top line says how it is sorted and filtered.
| Key | Does |
|---|---|
| s | Sorts by signal, channel or name, in turn |
| o | Shows only open networks |
| h | Hides the hidden networks |
| w | Shows only the strong ones |
| l | Starts and stops **logging** |
| Enter | Opens the **Signal tracker** on that network |
**Logging** adds each scan to `/wifi/scans/.csv` on the SD card, one row per network, once the device knows the date; `LOG` and a row count show while it runs. Logs stop when the card passes 90% full.
## Channel occupancy
One bar for each of the 13 Wi-Fi channels shows how busy it is: how many networks use it, and how strong they are. The top line counts the networks and names the quietest of the three channels that don't overlap, **1, 6 and 11**. It is the quick answer to "which channel should my router use?". ` (Back) returns to the menu.
## Signal tracker
Follows one network: its name, address and channel, then the signal in dBm in large type, a strength bar, and a graph of the recent readings, so you can walk towards the strongest signal. m turns audible clicks on and off. If the network is no longer heard the screen says `lost`. ` (Back) returns to the list.