Are you having Wi-Fi connectivity issues? There are fewer things in the world that cause more disruption than problems involving the internet. You could have a network issue, device interference, or worse…you’re in the middle of a full blown internet service outage. What’s to be done?
Look for the most common culprits first. Make sure that Airplane mode is off, Wi-Fi is enabled, and you’re attempting to connect to the correct network. Don’t forget to check for Bluetooth interference. If all else fails, reboot your router, or try resetting your iPhone to factory settings.
If you lack the knowledge, experience or time, fear not. Most of the time internet issues are resolved quickly and with little effort. These quick fixes will take mere minutes to complete, allowing you to quickly get back to the task at hand.
Why Isn’t My iPhone’s Wi-Fi Working?
When dealing with device issues the possibilities are limitless. One thing is certain: be sure to check the basics. The tried and true question of “Is it turned on?” applies here.
The problem is usually linked to a simple error, like an unlocked iPhone while not in use. So, you’ll often find that the resolution is easier than you might think.
Here’s a rundown of what you should check for when your Wi-Fi isn’t working:
- Make sure Airplane mode is off. You can check this by swiping down on your main screen while your iPhone is unlocked, or by going into the Settings App and viewing Airplane mode (usually at the top).
- See if Wi-Fi is enabled on your phone. You can confirm this by swiping down on your main screen while your iPhone is unlocked, or by going into the Settings App and selecting Wi-Fi.
- Check each cord connected to the router (and modem) for a loose connection.
- Confirm you are connected to the correct network with the correct network key.
- Make sure you are in range of the router.
- Try connecting another device to the same network. This will help confirm if it is a device issue.
Lastly, check for internet service outages in your area. If another device with a separate connection is available (or your phone has a cellular connection), check online for internet service outages in your area.
There are a number of websites online that provide this information, not to mention your Internet Service Provider’s (ISP). Try calling your ISP directly if no other connected device is available.
When you’ve checked all of the boxes above, you know you have a connectivity issue. It is possible that the issue involves interference or is settings related. Continue on to check these options.
Why Turning Off Your Bluetooth Might Help
From baby monitors to security cameras, many electronics utilize the 2.4GHz frequency, including Bluetooth. Bluetooth has been known to interfere with Wi-Fi networks, especially if the network is on the same 2.4GHz band.
An easy fix you could try is to turn off Bluetooth on your device. To view your Bluetooth settings, swipe down on your main screen while your iPhone is unlocked. You will notice the Bluetooth icon next to your Wi-Fi icon.
Additionally, you can access Bluetooth by going into the Settings App and viewing Bluetooth. This should be located at the top of your settings list with Wi-Fi and Airplane Mode.
If you find this to resolve your Wi-Fi issues, you might consider changing your router to the 5GHz band, which will prevent future issues and speed reductions from a variety of devices. Most routers are dual band and can switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
How to Reboot Your Router
“Turn your device off, then turn it back on again” is probably at the top of every tech support representative’s script. This is rightfully so, as it has fixed countless device issues.
Rebooting a router is essentially the same thing. This will reset the settings of the router to what you had previously, in case the settings have become corrupted.
To do this, follow the steps below:
- Unplug the power cord from your router. If you have a separate modem, do the same (at the same time).
- Turn your iPhone off.
- Wait for at least 30 seconds, and plug your router back in (and your modem, if applicable).
- For the next few minutes, you’ll see various solid and blinking lights begin to activate.
- After your router has returned to its normal state, turn your iPhone back on.
- Try connecting to your Wi-Fi network. Again, be sure Wi-Fi is enabled and Airplane mode is off.
When rebooting your external devices doesn’t work, you should then try to reset your iPhone. First, start with your Wi-Fi connection, then move to your iPhone itself.
Try Resetting Network Settings
We have a full article on this, but for now, here’s a summary of how you can try to reset just the network settings on your phone (not resetting it entirely).
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap “General.”
- Scroll down and tap “Reset.”
- Tap “Reset Network Settings.”
- If prompted, enter your iPhone’s passcode.
- Confirm that you want to reset your network settings by tapping “Reset Network Settings” again.
And do expect to set up your WiFi network from scratch on the other side of this. If you keep having problems, try to isolate your phone on your router’s 5GHz wireless band to see if that clears things up.
How to “Forget” Your Wi-Fi Network and Rejoin
Forgetting your Wi-Fi network (from your iPhone) is a simple step as long as you have the correct Network Name and Network Key. Having confirmed this information early on in troubleshooting will serve you here.
To “forget” your Wi-Fi network and rejoin it, do the following:
- Go to the Settings App on your iPhone.
- Tap on ‘Wi-Fi.’ Wi-Fi is typically at the top of the settings list with your other connectivity options.
- Find your network in the ‘My Networks‘ section. If there is trouble with the network or you haven’t connected to it in some time, it could be under the ‘Other Networks‘ section. Note: there may be a delay while loading these sections. Wait until your iPhone is done loading all possible networks.
- While looking at your Network Name, you will notice various icons. The lock signifies that the network is protected with a network key. The Wi-Fi logo displays network strength and an “i” with a circle around it. Tapping the “i” will provide you with additional options.
- Tap on the “i”, then select ‘Forget This Network.’ As the option states, this will remove the network from your trusted My Networks section.
- Locate your network and reconnect. You will need to enter your network key once more. If your network is no longer visible, try turning the Wi-Fi off then back on. Wait until your iPhone is done loading all possible networks.
At this point you have hopefully restored your Wi-Fi connection. When the issue remains, you have one last resort: to factory reset your iPhone.
How to Factory Reset Your iPhone
It may be possible that your iPhone’s settings have been corrupted and need to be rolled back, so to speak. Treat this as your last resort. Be sure that you have tried all previous options before resetting your iPhone.
In fact, it may be best practice to try the following before factory reset:
- Confirm there are no internet service outages in your area.
- If available, troubleshoot with your main computer. In your network settings, you can click ‘Troubleshoot Problems‘ and follow the prompts. You may need to patch or update your computer and/or router.
And we hope you’ve also tried restarting your phone by now, which we recommend doing routinely as good housekeeping.
Now a Factory Reset is in order. To perform one, follow these steps:
- Back-up all data on your iPhone. You can do this via iCloud or iTunes.
- Head to your Settings App.
- Tap on ‘General.’
- Tap on ‘Transfer or Reset iPhone.’
- Select ‘Erase All Content and Settings.’
- Once you have completed the process, restore your lost data from your back-up.
- Select your network from your Wi-Fi settings and enter your network key. This should connect you to your network.
When to Call a Professional
Once all of the options above are exhausted to no avail, it is time to call for backup. Assuming that you’ve contacted your ISP and confirmed your internet status, you can call them back (as long as the router and modem is their property).
They might suggest troubleshooting these devices or replacing them altogether. Of course, if these are your devices, then they will be unable to help.
From here, your best bet is to contact your iPhone retailer or Apple directly, depending on where you purchased insurance (if out of warranty). They will likely run through some troubleshooting options with you before suggesting a replacement device.