NetMonster is an app available for Android devices, primarily designed for monitoring mobile networks. It provides detailed information about the user’s current cellular connection, including data about the network type (GSM, CDMA, LTE, 5G, etc.), signal strength, cell tower ID, and more. Here’s a detailed review of its features and usefulness:
Key Features of NetMonster
Network Information:
Real-time Monitoring: NetMonster gives users real-time data about the mobile network their device is connected to. This includes details like signal strength (in dBm), Cell ID (which identifies the tower), Location Area Code (LAC), and network operator information.
Support for Multiple Networks: It supports a variety of network technologies, including GSM, UMTS, CDMA, LTE, NR (5G), and their variations.
Cell Tower Location Tracking:
NetMonster can show the approximate location of nearby cell towers based on the data gathered from users and public databases, though this is more accurate in areas with good data coverage.
It collects and logs information about the cell towers to which a phone connects, helping users analyze the quality and availability of the network in different locations.
Detailed Logs and Reports:
The app logs network changes, including when a device switches between 3G, 4G, and 5G networks. This is useful for diagnostics or testing the coverage quality in different areas.
Users can export logs and reports for further analysis.
Carrier Aggregation (CA) Support:
For LTE and 5G networks, the app shows details about carrier aggregation, which is when multiple frequency bands are combined to provide faster data speeds.
It also displays the frequency bands in use, helping users understand which bands their operator is leveraging.
Coverage Mapping:
By combining data from multiple users, NetMonster helps build a map of mobile coverage, showing which areas have better or worse signal reception.
Battery Usage:
Despite running in the background to track cell towers and signal strength, NetMonster is designed to be power-efficient. However, users may notice some battery drain when using it extensively for network logging.
Usability and Interface:
User Interface: The app has a simple and intuitive user interface. The main dashboard shows the essential network details, while more technical data is available with a couple of taps. It’s suitable for both advanced users who want in-depth network diagnostics and casual users just looking for signal strength information.
Ease of Use: For those familiar with cellular networks, the app is highly useful and provides detailed insights. However, casual users without a background in network technology may find some of the information technical.
Use Cases:
Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues: NetMonster is particularly useful for users facing network issues, as it provides comprehensive data on signal strength, network switching, and tower locations.
Traveling or Rural Areas: Users traveling through or living in areas with spotty coverage can use NetMonster to find the best places with strong reception.
Professional Use: Network engineers and testers can use it for fieldwork to assess signal quality and identify weak spots in network coverage.
Final Verdict
NetMonster is a powerful tool for anyone interested in monitoring mobile networks, especially for those who want in-depth information about signal quality, cell towers, and coverage. It’s highly useful for both personal and professional purposes, though it may feel overwhelming for users unfamiliar with network technology.