How to reset iPhone network settings

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for resetting iPhone network settings.

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

Quick Answer

To reset the network settings on your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This process will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth connections, and VPN settings, restoring network configurations to their factory defaults.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before resetting your iPhone's network settings, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •iPhone running iOS 14 or later (iOS 15, 16, and 17 are also supported).
  • •Access to your iPhone with the correct passcode.
  • •Backup important data, as you will lose saved Wi-Fi passwords and VPN settings.
  • •Ensure your device is charged or connected to power during the process.

Method 1: Reset Network Settings via iPhone Settings

This is the primary method to reset network settings directly from your iPhone. Use this method when you are experiencing Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity issues.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone. (Icon: gear icon)
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll to the bottom and select 'Transfer or Reset iPhone'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Reset'.
  • •Step 5: Select 'Reset Network Settings'.
  • •Step 6: Enter your passcode when prompted.
  • •Step 7: Confirm your selection by tapping 'Reset Network Settings' again.
  • •Step 8: Your iPhone will restart, and you will see a confirmation message once the process is complete.
  • •Step 9: Reconnect to your Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15 and later, the interface may have slight variations, but the steps remain largely the same.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Transfer or Reset iPhone'.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Reset'.
  • •Step 5: Choose 'Reset Network Settings'.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The process is similar, but the menu paths may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and tap 'Reset'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Reset Network Settings'.

Method 2: Reset Network Settings via iTunes or Finder

Use this method if you cannot access the Settings app due to a software issue. This method requires a computer.
  • •Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
  • •Step 2: Open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later).
  • •Step 3: Select your iPhone when it appears in iTunes or Finder.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Summary' (iTunes) or 'General' (Finder).
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Restore iPhone'.
  • •Step 6: Follow the prompts to back up your data if necessary.
  • •Step 7: After restoring, set up your iPhone as new or restore from backup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during or after resetting network settings, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to connect to the network' - Solution: Ensure you are within range of the Wi-Fi network and that the router is functioning properly.
  • •Issue: Wi-Fi networks not appearing - Fix: Restart your iPhone and router, then try again.
  • •Problem: Bluetooth devices not connecting - Workaround: Forget the device in Bluetooth settings and reconnect.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - This process does not have a keyboard shortcut as it is performed on the device.
  • •Command line: N/A - This process cannot be performed via command line.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Reset All Settings' for a broader reset if network issues persist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly resetting your network settings can help maintain optimal performance and connectivity on your iPhone.