Visualize Your WiFi Stability in the Linux Terminal with Wavemon
Source: Dev.to
How to Install
wavemon is available in most standard repositories.
Debian / Ubuntu / Kali
sudo apt install wavemonArch Linux
sudo pacman -S wavemonFedora
sudo dnf install wavemonRunning wavemon
sudo wavemonNote: sudo is often required to see the scan data and other privileged details.
Understanding the Dashboard
When you launch wavemon, you are greeted with the F1 (Info) screen. Below are the most important sections to read.
1. Signal Level (The big bar)
- Measured in dBm (decibel‑milliwatts).
- The numbers are negative; the closer to 0, the better.
| dBm range | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| -30 to -50 dBm | Excellent signal (very close to router) |
| -50 to -67 dBm | Good signal (ideal for streaming/gaming) |
| -67 to -70 dBm | Okay (browsing fine, possible lag in video calls) |
| -80 dBm or lower | Poor (frequent disconnects and packet loss) |
2. RX vs. TX Rates
- RX (Receive): Download link speed from the router.
- TX (Transmit): Upload link speed to the router.
These are link speeds, not your ISP’s internet speed. For example, an RX rate of 780 Mbit/s is the theoretical speed between your device and the router; you’ll still be limited by your ISP’s plan for internet traffic.
3. Link Quality
Displayed as a percentage or a fraction (e.g., 57/70). It reflects the signal‑to‑noise ratio. If it drops below 40 %, you’re likely experiencing interference from neighboring networks or appliances.
4. Retry Count
Look for the line labeled retries.
- Low number: Good.
- High or rapidly increasing number: Your Wi‑Fi card is retransmitting data because the router isn’t receiving it reliably—common in crowded environments or when you’re far from the access point.
Pro Tips
- F2 (Level Histogram): Press F2 to view a moving graph of signal strength. Walk around your house with the screen open to see how walls, appliances, or furniture affect the signal.
- F3 (Scan): Press F3 to list nearby Wi‑Fi networks. Useful for identifying channel congestion caused by neighbors.
Summary
If you’re debugging network issues or just want to feel like a hacker while checking your Wi‑Fi strength, wavemon is a must‑have tool in any Linux toolkit.
Happy networking! 🐧