In today’s digital era, fast internet is no longer just a luxury, but has become a basic necessity. Looking at the trends of 2026, everything from online work, content creation, freelancing, streaming and gaming depends on high-speed internet. Many Android users have 4G or 5G supported phones, but still their internet speed remains slow. This is often because the phone’s network settings are not set correctly. If you enable 4G or 5G properly on your Android phone, you can instantly improve your internet speed without any extra apps. In this guide, we’ll explain in simple and practical ways how to take full advantage of 4G/5G on Android in 2025 and 2026.
Why This Feature/Technology Works Better in 2026
Mobile network technology has advanced significantly in 2026. Telecom companies have upgraded their towers and backend systems, making 4G LTE and 5G networks more stable and faster than before. The latest versions of Android also focus on network optimization. Now phones automatically detect the best available band and signal, but you can achieve even better results with manual settings.
Additionally, new Android phones feature powerful modems and AI-based signal management systems that improve data speeds. Battery optimization and network switching have also been significantly streamlined in the 2026 Android update. This means that locking your phone to only 4G or 5G prevents unnecessary network switching and results in more stable internet. This is why this feature is more effective today than ever before.
How to Use 4G/5G on an Android Phone for Best Results
Setting up 4G or 5G on an Android phone isn’t difficult; it just requires a little understanding and the right steps. Below, everything from basic to advanced methods is explained in detail.
Step 1: Basic Setup or First Method
First, open your Android phone’s Settings. There, you’ll find the Mobile Network or SIM & Network option. Tapping this option will bring up a section called Preferred Network Type or Network Mode. There are usually options like 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, or 5G.
If your phone supports 4G, select the LTE or 4G LTE option. If your phone supports 5G and 5G is available in your area, select the 5G/4G/3G Auto or 5G only option. This simple step will cause your phone to always prioritize faster networks and result in a noticeable improvement in internet speed.
Step 2: Advanced or Pro Method
For advanced users, Android offers a more powerful option, accessible through hidden phone settings. Open the dialer and enter a special code that opens the phone information screen. From this screen, you can manually select your preferred network type, such as LTE only or NR only (5G).
The advantage of this method is that your phone won’t switch to a slower network. But remember, if your area has weak 4G or 5G signals, you may experience call or data issues. Therefore, be sure to consider the signal strength in your area when using this setting. For pro users, this method maximizes both speed and stability.
Professional Tips to Get DSLR-Level or Pro Results
Fast internet isn’t just about changing settings; it also requires some smart habits. Always keep your phone updated to the latest Android version, as updates often improve network performance. A cheap or damaged SIM card can also cause slow speeds, so it’s best to replace it if the SIM is old.
Another common mistake is that users don’t close background apps. Many apps use data in the background, which affects speed. Going into the data usage settings and restricting unnecessary apps is a professional trick that gives instant results. Phone cases or covers can also sometimes block the signal, so if speed is an issue, be sure to remove the cover and test.
Best Settings, Apps, or Tools (If Applicable)
Android has some built-in settings that can improve your internet experience. If you want speed, you should keep the Data Saver option off, as this feature limits background data. It’s also beneficial to use the Network Reset option occasionally, especially if the phone has been running on the same settings for a long time.
Some reliable network monitoring apps are also available that give you an idea of signal strength and speed. Use these apps only for analysis; avoid letting them run permanently in the background. Enabling the “Mobile Data Always Active” feature in Developer options is also helpful for advanced users, as it makes network switching faster.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Many beginners encounter the issue of calls not going through after selecting 4G or 5G. A simple solution is to enable the VoLTE option, which allows calls to flow smoothly over the data network. Another common problem is a weak signal, which often occurs during indoor use or in remote areas. In this situation, it’s best to set the network mode to auto or use the phone in an open area.
Sometimes, slow speeds are caused by a phone software bug. The solution is to restart the phone or reset the network settings. If this still doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s helpful to test the SIM in another phone to confirm whether the issue is with the phone or the network.
Final Thoughts
Setting up 4G or 5G correctly on an Android phone is the easiest and most effective way to achieve fast internet in 2025 and 2026. This not only makes browsing and streaming faster, but also streamlines online earnings, content creation, and professional work. By following the basic and advanced steps in this guide, you can unlock your phone’s hidden potential.
Whether you’re a beginner or a creator-focused user, these settings can be a game-changer. With a little awareness and the right configuration, you can boost your internet speed at no extra cost. Follow this guide, experiment, and get your Android phone ready for a truly next-level internet experience.
