Frequently Asked Questions

WiFi Captive is a comprehensive platform that provides professional network testing tools to help users analyze and optimize their WiFi and internet connections. Our suite of tools includes:

• Speed Test - Measure your download and upload speeds
• Ping Test - Check your connection's latency
• Signal Strength - Analyze your WiFi signal quality
• DNS Leak Test - Verify your DNS privacy
• IP Checker - View your public IP information
• Connection Stability - Test your connection's reliability
• WebRTC Checker - Check for WebRTC leaks

Our mission is to provide accurate, easy-to-use tools that help users understand and improve their network performance.

Yes, all of our basic network testing tools are completely free to use. We believe everyone should have access to tools that help them understand and optimize their internet connection.

For advanced features, detailed analytics, and business solutions, we offer premium plans with additional capabilities. These plans are designed for professionals, businesses, and power users who need more comprehensive network analysis.

Our testing tools are designed to provide highly accurate results by using industry-standard methodologies and protocols. However, it's important to understand that network performance can be affected by many factors, including:

• Your current network load
• The device you're using
• Your internet service provider's infrastructure
• Physical distance to servers
• Network congestion at various points

For the most accurate results, we recommend running tests multiple times at different times of day. This helps establish a baseline for your connection and accounts for normal fluctuations in network performance.

No, you don't need to create an account to use our basic tools. All of our standard network testing tools are available without registration.

However, creating a free account allows you to:

• Save your test results for future reference
• Track your network performance over time
• Compare results across different locations
• Receive personalized recommendations

Premium features and advanced analytics are available to subscribers of our paid plans.

Our WiFi Speed Test works by sending and receiving data packets between your device and our test servers. The process involves:

1. Server Selection: The test automatically selects the closest server to minimize latency effects.
2. Ping Test: Measures the round-trip time for data packets to travel between your device and the server.
3. Download Test: Multiple connections are opened to the server to download sample data, measuring how quickly your connection can receive data.
4. Upload Test: Sample data is sent from your device to the server, measuring how quickly your connection can send data.

The test uses WebSocket technology to ensure accurate measurements across different browsers and devices. Results are displayed in Mbps (Megabits per second) for download and upload speeds, and in milliseconds (ms) for ping.

A DNS (Domain Name System) leak occurs when your DNS requests are processed through your ISP's servers instead of through your VPN's servers, potentially exposing your browsing activity despite using a VPN.

Our DNS Leak Test works by:

1. Making DNS requests to various domains
2. Capturing which DNS servers are handling these requests
3. Analyzing whether these servers belong to your ISP or your VPN provider
4. Identifying if your real location is being exposed through these DNS requests

If the test detects that your DNS requests are going through servers other than those of your VPN provider, it will alert you to a potential DNS leak. This is important for privacy as DNS requests can reveal which websites you're visiting.

The Signal Strength test measures the quality of your WiFi connection in terms of signal strength (RSSI - Received Signal Strength Indicator) and reports it on a scale that's easy to understand:

• Excellent (≥ -50 dBm): Very strong signal, optimal performance
• Good (-51 to -60 dBm): Strong signal, reliable performance
• Fair (-61 to -70 dBm): Moderate signal, acceptable performance
• Poor (-71 to -80 dBm): Weak signal, may experience issues
• Very Poor (≤ -81 dBm): Very weak signal, unreliable connection

The test also provides information about your connection's stability, interference levels, and potential solutions to improve your signal strength. If your signal is weak, consider:

• Moving closer to your router
• Repositioning your router to a central location
• Removing physical obstacles between your device and router
• Using a WiFi extender or mesh network system
• Upgrading to a more powerful router

Our IP Checker tool provides comprehensive information about your public IP address, including:

• IP Address: Your current public IPv4 and/or IPv6 address
• Geolocation: Approximate location based on your IP (country, region, city)
• ISP Information: Your Internet Service Provider's name
• Connection Type: Whether you're using a residential, mobile, or data center connection
• Proxy/VPN Detection: Whether you appear to be using a proxy or VPN service
• Hostname: The reverse DNS record associated with your IP
• Timezone: The timezone associated with your IP's location

This information is useful for verifying your online privacy, checking if your VPN is working correctly, and understanding how your connection appears to websites you visit.

Creating an account with WiFi Captive is simple and free:

1. Click on the "Sign Up" button in the top right corner of any page
2. Enter your email address and create a password
3. Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox
4. Complete your profile with optional information

Once your account is created, you'll be able to save test results, track your network performance over time, and access personalized recommendations based on your usage patterns.

If you've forgotten your password, you can reset it by following these steps:

1. Click on the "Log In" button in the top right corner
2. Click on the "Forgot Password?" link below the login form
3. Enter the email address associated with your account
4. Check your email for a password reset link
5. Click the link and follow the instructions to create a new password

The password reset link is valid for 24 hours. If you don't receive the email within a few minutes, please check your spam folder or contact our support team for assistance.

Yes, you can delete your account and all associated data at any time:

1. Log in to your account
2. Go to "Account Settings" from the dropdown menu under your profile
3. Scroll to the bottom and click on "Delete Account"
4. Confirm your decision by entering your password

Once you delete your account, all your personal information and saved test results will be permanently removed from our systems. This action cannot be undone.

You can always create a new account later if you wish to use the account features again.

Yes, WiFi Captive is completely free to use! We believe that everyone should have access to quality network testing tools without any cost.

• All Tools Free: Every tool on our platform is available at no cost
• No Premium Tiers: We don't have paid subscription plans
• Full Features: Access to all features without limitations
• No Ads: We provide an ad-free experience for all users

Our mission is to provide high-quality network testing tools that are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.

No, you don't need to create an account to use any of our tools. All features are available immediately without registration.

However, creating a free account provides some benefits:

• Save your test history for future reference
• Compare results over time
• Access personalized recommendations
• Save your preferred settings

Account creation is completely optional and doesn't unlock any additional features or remove any limitations.

We're able to offer all our tools for free thanks to:

• Efficient resource management and optimization
• Community support and contributions
• Minimal operating costs
• Passion for providing accessible network tools

We believe that quality network testing tools should be available to everyone without financial barriers. Our mission is to help users understand and improve their network performance regardless of their budget.

While we may introduce optional ways to support our service in the future, all core tools and features will always remain completely free.

We are committed to keeping all our current tools and features completely free. Our core mission is to provide accessible network testing tools to everyone.

While we may consider optional ways for users to support our service in the future, we promise that:

• All existing tools will remain free forever
• Any new core features will be available to all users
• We will never implement forced advertisements
• We will never sell user data

Our focus is on building a helpful community resource rather than a profit-driven service. We believe that network testing tools should be accessible to everyone without financial barriers.

There are several reasons why your speed test results might differ from the speeds advertised by your Internet Service Provider (ISP):

• "Up to" Speeds: ISPs typically advertise "up to" speeds, which represent the maximum possible under ideal conditions.
• Network Congestion: During peak usage times, network congestion can reduce available bandwidth.
• WiFi vs. Wired: WiFi connections are generally slower than wired connections due to interference and signal loss.
• Device Limitations: Older devices may not support the latest WiFi standards or have hardware limitations.
• Home Network Setup: Routers, modems, cables, and other equipment can affect your connection speed.
• Server Location: The distance to the test server can impact results.

For the most accurate comparison, try running tests at different times of day, using a wired connection if possible, and closing other applications that might be using bandwidth.

If you're experiencing issues with our tools, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Update Your Browser: Make sure you're using the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.
2. Clear Cache and Cookies: Accumulated cache data can sometimes cause issues.
3. Disable Extensions: Some browser extensions, especially ad blockers or privacy tools, might interfere with our tests.
4. Try Incognito/Private Mode: This can help identify if extensions or cookies are causing problems.
5. Check JavaScript: Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser settings.
6. Try Another Device: If possible, test on a different device to see if the issue persists.

If you've tried these steps and are still experiencing issues, please contact our support team with details about your browser, operating system, and the specific problem you're encountering.

Here are some effective ways to improve your WiFi signal strength:

• Optimal Router Placement: Position your router in a central location, away from walls, metal objects, and electronic devices.
• Elevate Your Router: Place your router on a shelf or mount it on a wall for better signal distribution.
• Update Router Firmware: Keep your router's firmware updated for the latest performance improvements.
• Choose the Right Channel: Use a WiFi analyzer app to find less congested channels (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz).
• Use 5GHz Band: If your router supports it, the 5GHz band typically has less interference than 2.4GHz.
• Upgrade Your Router: Consider upgrading to a newer router with better range and the latest WiFi standards.
• Add WiFi Extenders or Mesh System: For larger homes, use extenders or a mesh WiFi system to expand coverage.
• Check for Interference: Keep your router away from microwave ovens, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices.

Our Signal Strength tool can help you measure improvements as you make these changes.

If you suspect your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is throttling your connection, follow these steps to investigate and address the issue:

1. Run Multiple Speed Tests: Use our speed test at different times of day to establish a pattern.
2. Test With a VPN: If speeds improve significantly when using a VPN, this might indicate throttling of specific services.
3. Check Your Data Cap: Many ISPs reduce speeds after you exceed a monthly data allowance.
4. Monitor Specific Services: Note if throttling seems to affect only certain websites or services (like streaming platforms).
5. Contact Your ISP: Ask directly if they implement any traffic management or throttling policies.
6. Review Your Contract: Check your service agreement for any mentions of "network management" or "fair usage policies."
7. File a Complaint: If necessary, file a complaint with relevant consumer protection or telecommunications regulatory agencies.

Keep detailed records of your speed tests, including dates, times, and results, to support your case if you need to escalate the issue with your ISP or regulatory authorities.