Systems and methods for a self-optimizing distributed antenna system are provided. In certain embodiments, a distributed antenna system comprises a host unit configured to control the operation of the distributed antenna system; and a plurality of remote units coupled to the host unit. In at least one embodiment, a remote unit in the plurality of remote antenna units comprises a scanning receiver configured to receive signals in a plurality of frequency bands; at least one transceiver configured to transmit and receive signals in a frequency band in the plurality of frequency bands; and a remote unit controller configured to control an uplink gain level of the at least one transceiver and tune the scanning receiver to a frequency band in the plurality of frequency bands.