Android can show whether a Wi-Fi network uses WPA2, WPA3, a mixed mode, or no encryption at all. That matters because an open network does not protect traffic between your phone and the router.
These steps apply to Android 10 and later on Samsung, Pixel, Motorola, and similar phones.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if Android warns that a network is not secure, or if you want to know whether your home or public Wi-Fi is using modern encryption.
Check the Current Wi-Fi Security Type
- Open Settings > Network & internet > Internet, or open Wi-Fi on your phone.
- Tap the gear icon next to the connected network.
- Look for Security or Security type.
- Read the value, such as WPA2/WPA3, WPA2-Personal, WPA3, or None/Open.
For home networks, WPA2 is a normal baseline and WPA3 is stronger when all devices support it. Treat open public networks as untrusted.
Respond to Security Warnings
- Tap the warning or network details to see whether Android is warning about weak security or no internet access.
- If the problem is weak or open encryption, avoid banking, email, and sensitive account sign-ins on that network.
- Use a trusted VPN if you must use an open network.
- If the warning is only no internet access, troubleshoot the router or provider instead of treating it as a privacy warning.
Use Android Wi-Fi Protection Settings
- Open Wi-Fi preferences or advanced Wi-Fi settings.
- Enable Avoid poor connections if your phone offers it.
- Enable open network notifications if you want alerts before joining unsecured networks.
- Use randomized MAC or private address behavior for networks where tracking is a concern.
- Review saved networks and forget old open networks you no longer use.
Important Security Notes
Your Phone Detects, the Router Controls
Android shows the security type, but the router sets it. To switch from open or WPA2 to WPA3, change the router admin settings.
VPN Helps but Does Not Fix Wi-Fi
A VPN encrypts traffic between your phone and the VPN provider. It does not make the local Wi-Fi network itself secure.
WPA2 Is Still Common
WPA3 is stronger, but WPA2 is still widely used and reasonable for typical home use when paired with a strong password.
Sources
- Android Help: Connect to Wi-Fi networks
- Wi-Fi Alliance: WPA3 security overview
- Google Support: Fix problems connecting to Wi-Fi networks