Identify whether the problem is the network, the building, the phone or a temporary fault before buying equipment.
1. Establish the pattern
Check the operator’s status page, then test by a window, upstairs and outside. If the service is strong outdoors but weak indoors, the building is probably a major factor. If the service is poor across the area, a different network may be the better answer.
2. Use the least disruptive fix first
- Restart the phone and install current system and carrier updates.
- Enable Wi‑Fi Calling for the exact line and test it with an ordinary call.
- Move routine calls to the part of the property with the best reception.
- Try another network using PAYG, a short SIM-only plan or Dual SIM.
- Consider an Ofcom-compliant indoor repeater only where outdoor signal is usable.
3. Improve Wi‑Fi before relying on Wi‑Fi Calling
Weak or overloaded home Wi‑Fi can produce poor calls even when broadband itself is fast. Position the router sensibly, test near it, update the router and use wired backhaul or a properly planned mesh where necessary.
4. Avoid false fixes
- Decorative “signal stickers” and passive patches do not create network coverage.
- Unapproved boosters can interfere with mobile networks and may be illegal.
- A factory reset is not a sensible first response to a location-specific signal problem.
- Changing APN settings will not improve voice coverage.
Choose a fix that matches the cause
Wi‑Fi Calling is usually the most practical answer where broadband is dependable. A second network is better where one operator has weak local coverage. A compliant repeater is relevant only where a usable outdoor mobile signal exists. If every network is poor and broadband also fails regularly, the solution may require a broader connectivity plan rather than another phone setting.
What should prove the result
Use the least invasive solution that addresses the proven cause. Start with a network-status check, then compare rooms, Wi‑Fi Calling and a second network. A legal repeater or external solution should be considered only after confirming that usable outdoor signal exists and the equipment meets current Ofcom requirements.
- Keep a short log of failed calls and locations.
- Test the chosen fix during a power or broadband interruption if it is meant as a backup.
- Return equipment within the allowed period if the real home test fails.
Official sources
- Ofcom — Improving your indoor coverage
- Ofcom — Using a repeater to improve indoor mobile signal
- Three — Coverage and Wi‑Fi Calling support
Facts checked: 25 July 2026. Network features, device menus and coverage can change. Recheck your exact phone model, software version, network and plan before relying on a feature.
