How to Change Network Mode on Samsung Galaxy (4G, 5G, LTE Settings)
Manually change network mode Samsung Galaxy in Samsung Galaxy 4G LTE settings. Learn to switch network mode Galaxy and set Samsung Galaxy preferred network type or LTE only Samsung.
Samsung Galaxy phones let you manually select which network generation to use: 5G, 4G/LTE, 3G, or 2G. Knowing how to switch modes helps you optimize speed, coverage, and battery life.
How to Change Network Mode
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Tap Mobile networks.
- Tap Network mode (sometimes labeled "Preferred network type").
- Select your desired mode from the list.
Available Network Modes
| Mode | When to Use |
|---|---|
| 5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto) | Default — recommended for most users; uses best available network |
| 5G/LTE (auto) | Use when you want to exclude 3G/2G; faster handoff in modern cities |
| LTE/3G/2G (auto) | Disables 5G; extends battery life or when 5G is unstable |
| LTE only | Forces 4G LTE; good for stable speed in well-covered areas |
| 3G/2G (auto) | Legacy fallback; useful in areas with no LTE |
| 2G only | Minimal connection; calls/SMS only; maximum battery saving |
Recommended Settings for Common Scenarios
Maximum Speed (Urban Core)
5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto) — lets the phone select the fastest available connection.
Extend Battery Life
LTE/3G/2G (auto) — disables the more power-hungry 5G modem.
International Travel
LTE/3G/2G (auto) — often most compatible with foreign carrier bands.
Poor Signal Area
3G/2G (auto) — 3G and 2G have better indoor penetration and long-range coverage than LTE/5G.
Troubleshooting Network Issues
Try LTE only first, then LTE/3G/2G — this forces a clean network registration.
Why the Option Might Be Missing
On some carrier-locked Galaxy phones, the network mode option may be hidden or restricted by the carrier's firmware. In this case:
- Check if a carrier settings update is available
- Contact carrier support to unlock network mode settings
- On some models, network modes are accessible through the Phone dialer by entering
*#*#4636#*#*→ Phone information → Set preferred network type
Smart 5G Toggle
For automatic 5G management: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > enable Smart 5G — the phone automatically switches to LTE when 5G isn't needed, saving battery without manual intervention.
