Why Is My Phone Not Connecting to WiFi? 7 Easy Fixes

If your phone keeps refusing to connect to WiFi — or it connects but shows “No internet” — you’re not alone. Whether it’s your Android device or iPhone, WiFi issues pop up often. Let’s walk through seven effective fixes that usually get your connection back to normal.

1. Restart Your Phone and Router

The easiest fix is often the most effective: restart everything. Turn your phone off and back on, and reboot your router/modem as well. A quick power cycle clears temporary glitches. Avast+2Android Authority+2
After the reboot, try connecting again.

2. Double‑Check Basic Settings

Make sure WiFi is turned on. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → WiFi. On iPhone: Settings → WiFi. Also check that Airplane Mode is off — it disables WiFi entirely. Android Authority
If everything’s good and you’re still stuck, move on to the next steps.

3. Forget the Network and Reconnect

Sometimes the saved network data becomes corrupted. On your phone:

• Tap the WiFi network name → Forget

• Then reconnect by entering the password again.
  This clears old connection settings that might be blocking access. Android Authority+1

4. Update Your Phone’s Software

Outdated software can cause compatibility issues with your router or network protocols. Check:

• On Android: Settings → System → Software Update

• On iPhone: Settings → General → Software Update
  Installing updates may resolve hidden bugs affecting WiFi connectivity. Avast+1

5. Inspect Your Router and Signal Strength

If you’re far from the router or there are obstacles (walls, appliances), your WiFi signal may be too weak or inconsistent. Try:

• Moving closer to the router

• Switching from 2.4GHz to 5GHz band (if supported)

• Ensuring no other electronic devices are interfering (microwave, cordless phone) Tech Advisor+1
  Also check your router’s DHCP limit or firmware—older routers may not play nicely with new phones. Mobilegoo

6. Reset Network Settings (If Nothing Else Works)

This is a deeper fix that wipes WiFi, Bluetooth and mobile network settings on your phone. On Android: Settings → System → Reset Options → Reset WiFi, mobile & Bluetooth. On iPhone: Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings. AVG.com+1
After reset, reconnect to your WiFi network and test.

7. Boot into Safe Mode (Android) or Check for Interfering Apps

If your phone still won’t connect, a third‑party app might be messing with your WiFi. On most Android devices:

• Hold Power button → long‑tap “Power off” → select Reboot to Safe Mode
  If WiFi works in Safe Mode, uninstall recently installed apps until the issue disappears. carlcare.com+1
  For iPhone, this step is less available, but you can check recently installed apps or VPNs.

Bonus: Prevent Future WiFi Connection Issues

• Keep your phone’s software and your router firmware up to date.

• Avoid installing untrusted apps or VPNs that can interfere with network settings.

• Position your router in a central location and keep large metal objects or electronics away.

• Periodically forget and reconnect to networks if your connection starts acting up again.

WiFi connection trouble on a phone is annoying, but in most cases you can fix it yourself by following the steps above. Start with the basics: restart, check settings, forget and reconnect. If needed, update software, reset network settings, or boot into Safe Mode. With a bit of patience, you’ll be back online soon.