When your mobile phone loses signal or is slowKnowing how to change your network operator on Android can be a lifesaver. In most cases, your phone will automatically connect to the best available network, but when traveling, in border areas, or experiencing occasional outages, it's a good idea to manually select a network to regain signal, improve speed, or avoid unwanted connections.
In addition to the selection of the operator, Android offers very useful settings. Learn how to mark metered Wi-Fi networks to control data usage, view MAC addresses (including random MAC addresses starting with Android 10), enable private DNS, or fine-tune advanced Wi-Fi preferences. Here's the most comprehensive guide, with common routes, clear steps, and practical tips as used in Spain.
Key information before you beginThe menu names may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and Android version; if you don't see the exact same options, look for equivalents such as "Connections", "Mobile networks", "Network operators" or "Network selection".
Automatic or manual: what changes when selecting the operator
In automatic mode, The system chooses the network with the best signal for you. at any given time, and it's usually the recommended option within your country. It's the most convenient way to get around without complications and keep your coverage up to date.
Manual selection is useful when traveling, if you are near a border, or notice that the connection with your usual operator "isn't working". When you switch to manual mode, you choose which network to connect to.You avoid being tied to networks in the neighboring country and can try other compatible providers if your roaming plan allows it.
In fact, some operators expressly recommend Use automatic mode within the national territory To ensure the best coverage, and switch to manual roaming abroad or in border areas. It's a simple way to stay in control and prevent unexpected roaming charges.
Steps to manually change the network operator on Android
These steps are a general reference that applies to most models. The nomenclature may vary depending on the manufacturer's layer, but the process is very similar.
- Go back to home screen If you were on any app, to start from scratch without distractions.
- Swipe up to open the app drawer and locate Settings.
- Open the phone's Settings app, the control center of connectivity.
- Go to Connections (or a similar name) to see network settings.
- Open Mobile Networks, where they are managed the SIM and the operator.
- Go to Network Operators or Network Selection, the key menu to choose a supplier.
- Disable automatic selection to force a search; mobile scans available networks for a few seconds.
- When the list appears, tap the operator you want. If you are outside your country, Choose one with a roaming agreement with your company to avoid unexpected service interruptions or charges.
Important noteThe steps may vary slightly between Android versions and phone models, but you will always find these options within Settings.
Common routes to find “Network Operators”
If you get lost in the menus, try these common routes; They are very practical shortcuts To access the operators option:
- Settings → Mobile networks
- Settings → More → Mobile networks
- Settings → More options → Mobile networks
- Settings → Connections → Mobile networks
At that point you will see “Network Operators” or “Network Selection”. Both routes lead to the same functionwhich allows you to switch between automatic and manual mode.
eSIM: when is it advisable to manually switch operators?
With eSIM, the device usually connects automatically to the fastest network. Even so, if the speed slows down, Turn off automatic selection and review the list. of available carriers for your eSIM. Try another compatible provider and see if it improves stability or performance. For advanced security, see Quantum-Safe eSIM if you are interested in eSIM protection.
This adjustment is perfect for travel or if you notice coverage drops in specific areas. In just a few taps you can get out of the traffic jam Switching to a higher-performing network. Reference information updated as of [date]. 28/02/2025.
Tips for traveling in Spain, abroad, and in border areas
For everyday life within the country, the most practical thing is to leave automatic mode activatedThis way, the phone will connect to the highest quality network without you having to intervene.
If you're abroad, sometimes it's best to switch to manual and block a specific local operator that works best with your roaming plan. Before selecting, check that your carrier has roaming agreement with that supplier.
In border areas (for example, near Andorra or Portugal), it's a good idea to manually set up the national network. avoid automatic engagement to the neighboring country's network and possible billing surprises.
Control of data usage with metered Wi-Fi networks
Android allows you to mark a Wi-Fi network as "metered" to limit background data usage. It's ideal if your Wi-Fi has a data cap. or you're sharing a connection from another mobile device.
- First, connect to the Wi-Fi network you want to adjust; It has to be the active one.
- Open Settings on your phone or tablet and go into Network and Internet.
- Tap on Internet (if it appears) and select the connected Wi-Fi network to open your profile.
- Search for “Network Usage” or similar and enable “Treat as metered network” to contain data spending.
When to use it: when Wi-Fi has a data limit, on shared connections, or on restricted networks. It gives you greater control and avoid downloads that devour megabytes without you even noticing.
Wi-Fi MAC address: how to see it (and why there are two in Android 10+)
The MAC address identifies the phone's Wi-Fi interface. It may be needed for router filters. or parental control.
- Open Settings and go to Phone Information.
- Scroll to the “Wi-Fi Network MAC Address” field to record the value.
Since Android 10, for privacy reasons, the system can use a Random MAC When connecting to networks. To view it: turn on Wi-Fi, go to Network & Internet → Internet, open your network settings and scroll down to “Random MAC address”.
Helpful hintIf you're going to apply parental controls or MAC filtering to your router, add both the original and the random MAC address. avoid unexpected blockages when the system switches between one and the other.
Private DNS on Android: what it is and how to set it up
Private DNS encrypts DNS queries to improve privacy and security. By default, Android uses it whenever the network supports it.and it is advisable to keep it active.
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet and locate Private DNS.
- Choose between: Disabled, Automatic o Provider Hostname (for services like DoT).
- press Save for the settings to be applied.
Keep in mind that private DNS only protects domain name queries and not the rest of the traffic. It won't protect you against threats like Stingray-type IMSI-catchers; for that, you need [other methods]. additional measures and good safety practices.
More Wi-Fi options worth checking out
In Settings → Network & Internet → Internet, look for “Network Preferences” or “Advanced” to fine-tune the behavior. These options give you fine control from Wi-Fi:
- Activate Wi-Fi automaticallyThe phone turns on Wi-Fi when it detects nearby saved networks.
- Notify open networksThe system will warn you if it cannot automatically connect to a good quality open network.
- Advanced: install certificates (identify your phone on certain networks) or use Wi-Fi Direct to connect with other devices without an access point.
If your Android is older, you may see WPS (button or PIN). It's useful for quick setup. If the router supports it, although it is deprecated for security reasons.
Common menu paths and names in Android
The option to change the operator is usually called “Network operators” or “Network selection” and it's usually found within "Mobile networks" or "Connections". On some models, it also appears under "More" or "More options".
If it doesn't match your phone perfectly, don't worry: Manufacturers change labels and orderBut the logic is the same. Search for everything related to "Mobile Networks", "SIM" and "Operators".
APN settings and mobile data: special cases
On many phones, internet settings are automatically configured and don't require any adjustments; if you're unsure whether your phone is locked, see how to check if a Android mobile is free.
For Android, go to Settings and activate Mobile Data and Data Roaming (It may be under “Mobile networks”, “Network settings” or “Wireless & networks”). Then, go to Mobile networks → Access Point Names/APNs on your SIM and create a new APN.
- Full Name: Masmovil
- APN: Internet
- Save the APN and select it as an asset
- MCC: 214 (or the default value)
- MNC: 04 (or the default value)
On iOS, go to Settings → Cellular Data, and turn on Mobile Data and RoamingThen, in “Mobile data network”, delete the username and password if they appear, and in “Access point”, type “internet”. MCC and MNC are usually filled in automatically (214 and 04 in Spain); confirms the values in case your carrier uses others.
If after these checks something still doesn't work, contact customer service to help you check your network and APN settings.
WhatsApp support from your operator
Many companies offer support via WhatsApp for quick inquiries. It's free and convenientAnd you can send images, documents, and voice notes to expedite processes.
As general guidelines, they usually ask that write from one line Included in your contract for security, and upon first access, they review the terms of the courier service. There are contact numbers such as 633 996 999 o 605 515 454, according to the company.
At the other end there are specialized agents They offer the same solution as a phone call. If you run into any problems switching providers while traveling or near a border, it's a very efficient way to get help without endless waits.
Customize the visible carrier name without root (via Shizuku)
If you want to change the name associated with the SIM card in the interface, there is a way to do it without root access using Shizuku (Wireless Local ADB)Some apps can edit the alias displayed by Android for each SIM after granting them access to Shizuku.
The typical procedure is to install and activate Shizuku, open the compatible app, and authorize access When prompted. The interface usually lists the SIMs and offers a field to write a custom name for each one.
The result depends on the manufacturer's interface: on some phones the alias is more clearly visible than on others. The change persists after restarting And if you're not happy with it, you can restore the original name from within the app itself. Note: this only changes the visible text; The operator doesn't really change nor the network you connect to.
Quick questions about network mode
What is network mode? This setting defines how the phone searches for and selects a mobile network. Automatic lets the system choose the best signal; manual allows you to select a specific operator.
Where can I find the option? Usually found in Settings → Connections or Mobile networks → Network operators/Network selection. If your phone uses different names, look for equivalents within the network settings.
What if I use an iPhone? On iOS, the path is usually Settings → Carrier, or within Mobile Data → Voice & Data Options. The process is similar, although here we're focusing on Android.
Good practices to avoid scares
Before manually changing operators abroad, confirms roaming agreements Connect to your local provider's SIM card and avoid being stuck on 2G if you need data. When you get home, remember to reconnect to your local provider's SIM card. enable automatic selection so that your mobile phone manages the network for you.
If you notice your network is dropping due to an outage or is unstable, try a manual search and, if necessary, temporarily switch to another available operator with your eSIM or roaming; see how it affects a prolonged power outage to the mobile network.
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Changing your network operator on Android is easy if you know how: switch between automatic and manual depending on the context (travel, borders, issues), use eSIM to test compatible providers when speeds are slow, configure the APN if your phone doesn't adjust automatically, and take advantage of extras like metered Wi-Fi, private DNS, MAC address lookup, and advanced Wi-Fi preferences; with these tools and support from your operator via WhatsApp when you need it, You will have full control of your connection wherever you go.
