📶 WiFi Not Working? Follow These Steps

A printable step-by-step troubleshooting guide to fix WiFi problems on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Step 1: Is WiFi Turned On?

• On your phone/tablet: Go to Settings > WiFi and make sure the toggle is ON
• On your computer: Look for the WiFi icon in the bottom-right (Windows) or top-right (Mac)
• If WiFi was off, turn it on and wait 10 seconds. Connected? You are done!
• If WiFi is on but not working, go to Step 2

Step 2: Toggle Airplane Mode

• Turn Airplane Mode ON, wait 10 seconds, then turn it OFF
• On iPhone: Settings > Airplane Mode, or swipe down from top-right
• On Android: Swipe down from top of screen, tap the airplane icon
• On computer: Skip this step and go to Step 3
• Did this fix it? Great! If not, go to Step 3

Step 3: Restart Your Device

• Turn your phone, tablet, or computer completely OFF
• Wait 30 seconds
• Turn it back ON and check WiFi again
• Still not working? Go to Step 4

Step 4: Restart Your Router

• Find your WiFi router (the box with blinking lights, usually near your front door or living room)
• Unplug the power cable from the back of the router
• Wait 60 seconds (a full minute)
• Plug it back in and wait 2-3 minutes for the lights to settle
• Try connecting to WiFi again. Working? Wonderful! If not, go to Step 5

Step 5: Forget and Reconnect to the Network

• Go to Settings > WiFi on your device
• Tap on your WiFi network name
• Tap "Forget This Network" or "Forget"
• Now tap your WiFi network name again and re-enter the password
• Tip: Your WiFi password is often on a sticker on the bottom of your router
• Still not working? Go to Step 6

Step 6: Check if the Problem Is Your Provider

• Ask someone else in your home if their WiFi is working — if nobody has WiFi, the problem is your provider
• Check your internet provider's website (on your phone using mobile data) for outage reports
• Call your internet provider's support line (the number is on your bill)
• They can check for outages in your area and walk you through further steps

Quick Reference: Common WiFi Passwords

• Check the sticker on the bottom or back of your router
• Look for "WiFi Key", "WPA Key", "Wireless Password", or "Network Key"
• If you changed the password and forgot it, you may need to reset the router (small button on the back)
• After a reset, the password goes back to what is printed on the sticker