How to fix Wi-Fi not working on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

If your iPhone's Wi-Fi is not working, you can troubleshoot the issue by checking settings, resetting network settings, or updating your iOS. These steps can help restore connectivity and resolve common Wi-Fi problems.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin troubleshooting Wi-Fi issues on your iPhone, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 14 or later (check your version in Settings > General > About).
  • •Access to the Wi-Fi network you are trying to connect to, including the password if required.
  • •Basic knowledge of navigating the iPhone settings.
  • •Backup important data, as some troubleshooting steps may reset network settings.

Method 1: Restart Your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can resolve temporary software glitches that may be affecting Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • •Step 1: Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button until the slider appears.
  • •Step 2: Drag the slider to turn off your iPhone. Wait for 30 seconds.
  • •Step 3: Press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears.
  • •Step 4: Once your iPhone restarts, check if the Wi-Fi is working by going to Settings > Wi-Fi.

For iOS 15 and later

The process remains the same, but you can also access the Control Center to quickly turn off Wi-Fi.
  • •Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen.
  • •Tap the Wi-Fi icon to turn it off, wait a few seconds, and tap it again to turn it back on.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The steps are similar, but the Control Center may look different.
  • •Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to access the Control Center.
  • •Tap the Wi-Fi icon to toggle it off and on.

Method 2: Reset Network Settings

If restarting does not resolve the issue, resetting your network settings can help fix Wi-Fi problems caused by incorrect configurations.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Tap on General.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
  • •Step 4: Tap on Reset, then choose Reset Network Settings.
  • •Step 5: Confirm your choice by entering your passcode if prompted.
  • •Step 6: Your iPhone will restart, and you will need to reconnect to your Wi-Fi network.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the above methods do not resolve your Wi-Fi issues, consider the following common problems and their solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to Join the Network' - Solution: Ensure you are entering the correct Wi-Fi password. You can also forget the network by going to Settings > Wi-Fi, tapping the 'i' icon next to the network, and selecting Forget This Network.
  • •Issue: Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting - Fix: Check for interference from other devices or try moving closer to the router. Also, ensure that your router firmware is up to date.
  • •Problem: Wi-Fi is greyed out - Workaround: This may indicate a hardware issue. Try resetting your iPhone or contacting Apple Support.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For users comfortable with advanced settings, consider these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Settings > Wi-Fi' to quickly access Wi-Fi settings.
  • •Command line: If using a Mac, you can use Terminal commands to diagnose network issues.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Wi-Fi Assist' in Settings > Cellular to automatically switch to cellular data when Wi-Fi connectivity is poor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly updating your iPhone and router firmware can prevent many connectivity issues.