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Samsung

Samsung: Change Preferred Network Mode (2G/3G/4G/5G)

If your Samsung phone keeps dropping to a slower connection or won't pick up 4G or 5G even with full signal bars, the Network mode setting might be locked to an older standard. This option decides whether the device connects using 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G, and a wrong choice here cuts off faster networks completely. On dual-SIM models each SIM slot has its own separate setting.

4 min5 steps
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Step 1 of 5: Tap on **Settings**

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Tap on Settings

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Android 11 · One UI 3
Change Preferred Network Mode – One UI 3: step 1 – Tap on Settings
Tap on Settings
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Samsung

Change Preferred Network Mode auf Samsung

Network mode tells your Samsung phone which mobile standard to use for calls and data. Depending on the model and carrier, the options range from 2G and 3G up to 4G (LTE) and 5G. Forcing an older standard like 2G reduces data speed drastically and can also block features that rely on 4G, such as VoLTE for HD calls.

Locking the mode to a single standard makes sense in rare cases, for example to save battery in an area with no reliable 4G coverage. In most situations the automatic option that includes the fastest available network delivers better performance and should stay selected.

On dual-SIM devices, SIM 1 and SIM 2 each have their own Network mode setting, so check the correct slot if only one number has connection issues.

Menu path

Open SettingsConnectionsMobile networksNetwork mode SIM 1 / 2 ➔ choose the desired option from the list.

If the phone still shows no signal or drops calls after changing this setting, the cause is usually coverage or a SIM/APN problem rather than the Network mode itself.

Frequently asked questions

5G availability depends on the device model, the carrier plan, and whether 5G coverage exists in your area. If any of these is missing, the Network mode list only shows 2G, 3G, and 4G.

Compatible devices

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Android 11 · One UI 3

No compatible devices are listed for this version.