If Android does not connect to WiFi, then most often the user sees the “Obtaining an IP address” message or the “Authentication Error” notification. Another common connection error is that Android writes “Saved, WPA/WPA2 protection,” but does not connect to the Internet.
This article is suitable for all brands that produce phones on Android 10/9/8/7: Samsung, HTC, Lenovo, LG, Sony, ZTE, Huawei, Meizu, Fly, Alcatel, Xiaomi, Nokia and others. We are not responsible for your actions.
Attention! You can ask your question to a specialist at the end of the article.
Possible causes of failure
If Android cannot connect to Wi-Fi - for example, instead of an active Wi-Fi icon, you see gray button and icon exclamation mark- then the reason for this could be:
- Wrong from Wi-Fi.
- Setting an unsupported security type or standard wireless communication in the router settings.
- Problems with Android firmware.
The first step is to understand which device is having problems. If only your phone does not connect to the point, then the reason should be sought in its settings and firmware. If no device finds the wireless network, then you should check the router settings.
"Obtaining an IP Address" message
If, when you try to connect, a message with the text “ ” appears, but the connection is not established, then the reason for this may be that the DHCP server is disabled in the router settings or problems in Android work. A simple reboot of the router can help.
If the DHCP server fails, restarting the device will fix it. When saving an error:
- Open your router settings.
- Make sure the DHCP server is enabled.
Depending on the router model, the procedure for enabling/disabling DHCP may vary, so you will need to look for instructions for your device.
Authentication Error
If connection authentication fails, the problem is most likely due to incorrect input. Wi-Fi password. To resolve the error:
- Forget it wireless point on your phone/tablet.
- Reboot your router.
Increase - Change your password using only Latin letters and numbers.
- Make sure that WPA2-PSK is selected for network authentication.
Increase If your phone does not support the WPA2-PSK standard, then select another mode - WPA, WPA2. It’s clear that you can’t do this in the subway or a shopping center, so you just have to accept it. But at home or in a hotel, you can access the router and check the wireless network settings.
Saved, WPAWPA2 protection
If the connection is made without a password, then there cannot be an authentication error. However, there is another situation - the network is saved, but . Usually rebooting the router helps, but sometimes you have to go into the settings quite deeply.
Increase Also, look at the number of devices allowed. If it is “0”, then there are no restrictions.
Network discovery problems
If so, then changing the region and channel usually also helps. If Russia is selected in the settings, the router automatically connects to channels from 1 to 13. However, some devices do not support channels more than 10 - this is how an error appears. To fix it:
- Select the US region - it only has 10 channels.
- Manually change the channel to one of the range 1-10.
If this does not help, then make sure that other devices can see the network. Perhaps the cause of the problem should be sought in the work Wi-Fi module on Android.
Laptops have an advantage over personal computers represented by a built-in Wi-Fi adapter, with which users can connect to Wi-Fi wireless networks. However, PC owners can easily purchase an external Wi-Fi adapter and also enjoy the benefits of wireless technology.
However, some PC users report that sometimes their external Wi-Fi adapters, for some reason, cannot connect to the network provided by their router. The root of the problem can be many things: a faulty driver, problems with the router, operating system settings, etc.
In this article we will tell you what can be done if your Wi-Fi adapter cannot connect to the distributed network.
Checking the distributed Wi-Fi network
Let's first think about this: have you thought that perhaps the problem with connecting to the network is not in the Wi-Fi adapter, but in the router, which simply does not distribute the wireless network? Checking this is quite simple: take another device that is capable of connecting to a Wi-Fi network and try connecting to your router using it.
If there are no other devices, you need to go to the settings of your router and make sure that it is activated for wireless network distribution. There are times when the settings in such devices, for some reason, go wrong on their own. All you need to do is log into the interface and activate the Wi-Fi sharing option.
Turn off Airplane mode
As we all know, Windows 10 has a rather convenient Airplane mode, which can be used to disable all wireless modules located on your system. Of course, after activating this mode, your external Wi-Fi adapter will also be deactivated.
Airplane mode is extremely useful for mobile devices and laptops, but on desktop computers it is absolutely not needed. However, you could accidentally turn it on, for example, by digging through the settings or using a special combination. There are also opinions that the “Airplane” mode can be enabled by third-party software.
Deactivating Airplane mode is incredibly simple: click on the Notification Center icon and click on the button of the same name. That's all that is required of you. If you don’t find this option in the Notification Center, you can go to System Settings and disable it there.
Restarting the Wi-Fi router
Having realized that the wireless network distribution is activated and your Wi-Fi adapter is not blocked system settings computer - try restarting your router. There is a possibility that it has started to malfunction, as a result of which you cannot connect to the network using third party devices with Wi-Fi adapter. Restarting is extremely simple: unplug the router from the power supply for about ten to fifteen seconds, and then plug it back into the network. It is worth saying that routers can often fail, which leads to a number of unpleasant problems: reduced speed network connection, blocking certain connections or all access to the Internet.
Using the troubleshooter
Enough in a simple way The solution to network connection problems is to use the network troubleshooter. You don't have to go anywhere to get it, download it or search online, because this remedy represents system utility, which is incredibly easy to access. To do this you will need to do the following:
- go to Settings;
- go to the “Update and Security” section;
- go to the “Troubleshooting” tab;
- click on “Internet Connections”;
- click on the “Run the troubleshooter” button;
- follow the instructions on the screen.
It is worth saying that this systemic remedy, unfortunately, almost never solves any problems that have arisen in any element of the system. However, sometimes the stars do align in the sky - and a miracle happens. Try this troubleshooter and then check if you can connect your Wi-Fi adapter to your wireless network.
Updating Wi-Fi adapter drivers
You may not be able to use your Wi-Fi adapter normally simply because its drivers are outdated. By updating the drivers, you can get rid of any problems with your device. You can run the drivers through Device Manager:
- press Windows+X;
- select "Device Manager";
- find and open the section " Network adapters»;
- click right click mouse on the Wi-Fi adapter and select “Update driver...”;
- select to automatically search for a driver on the Internet;
After updating the drivers for your Wi-Fi adapter, try connecting to your router's wireless network again. In most cases, users who experience a similar problem resolve it by updating the driver for the device.
Roll back to a previous driver version
However, even new version drivers may cause problems when using Wi-Fi adapter, however, it all depends on the device manufacturer. Maybe, latest version The Wi-Fi adapter driver is extremely unstable or it is incompatible with your computer. In this case, you can try to rollback installed driver to the previous version.
You can do this in the same way using Device Manager:
- get to your Wi-Fi adapter in the list of network devices;
- Double-click the left mouse button on the Wi-Fi adapter;
- go to the “Driver” tab;
- click on the “Roll Back” button;
Having rolled back to the previous version of the driver for the Wi-Fi adapter, try using it and connecting to the router’s Wi-Fi network. If it really was the driver, then you will immediately understand it.
Temporarily disable the firewall
If none of the above helps you resolve the problem, then your wireless network may be interfering with your connection. Windows Firewall, which, for some reason, blocks the network connection. One way or another, you can check this simply: you just need to temporarily disable the system’s firewall.
You can do this as follows:
- press Windows+S;
- enter and select the request “Windows Defender Security Center”;
- go to the “Firewall and Network Security” tab;
- deactivate the firewall for the domain network, private network, and public network;
Try using a Wi-Fi adapter and connect to the wireless network provided by your router. We hope that everything finally worked out for you, and that your adapter is still working properly.
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It's a scary moment when your computer connects to Wi-Fi, but the Internet doesn't work. Unfortunately, there is no single solution to this problem, since the error may be related to the operating system settings or the router.
We have compiled step by step guide which will help you fix the problem.
Where to look?
If you are facing the "no internet access" problem, then you need to look at:
- Router
- The device that is experiencing the problem
If the Internet does not work on all devices connected to the Wi-Fi network, then most likely the problem is with your router/modem. You can also look at the Ethernet cable to make sure it is not broken or twisted.
If the Internet does not work only on the computer, while other devices connect fine wireless wifi network, then the problem is with the adapter Wi-Fi computer or again with a router that cannot connect to the computer.
To fix the “no internet access” problem, you can follow these nine steps. So let's begin.
1. Restart your computer and router
Yes, I know it sounds stupid, but most problems are solved with a simple reboot.
A good reboot is the solution to many problems with software and network connection. Turn off your router and wait 30 seconds before turning it back on. Additionally, you should restart your computer to ensure that it is also working properly. Once all devices have rebooted, try connecting again.
2. Check the signal indicators on the router
It's possible that the problem is with your Internet connection and not with your computer. To confirm, you need to check the indicator on the router and make sure it is lit.
Ideally, the indicators on the router should be lit green, and the Wi-FI indicator should blink. If you are unsure, contact your ISP customer support.
3. Use the built-in troubleshooting tool
If the ISP claims that the Internet is working properly, then there is most likely a problem with WiFi adapter on your device. This can be easily fixed using the built-in troubleshooter that is available by default on Windows.
The built-in network troubleshooting tool on Windows allows you to solve or at least report most network problems. Right-click the network icon on the taskbar and select " Troubleshooting" Windows will begin searching for the problem and how to fix it. If the system cannot fix them, it will let you know what the problem is. After that, you can find a solution on the Internet, or ask in the comments below, we will try to help you.
4. Clear DNS
Sometimes there is an error in DNS cache may cause problems accessing websites and you may think that the internet is not working. In this case, you need to clear the DNS.
Click on menu " Start" and enter " cmd" Next open command line on behalf of the administrator.
A command prompt window will open where you have to type “ ipconfig/flushdns» and press the enter key ( Enter). This command will clear the DNS cache.
5. Change the wireless mode on your router
If your computer has access to the Internet, when you connect the Ethernet cable directly, while through Wi-Fi internet does not work, then the problem may be with the wireless mode.
Routers support multiple wireless modes. For example, you may have encountered symbols such as 802.11b or 802.11 b/g or 802.11 b/g/n etc. So, b, g, n and ac are different wireless communication standards. B is the oldest WiFi standard that covers a smaller area and provides lower data transfer speeds, while AC is the latest WiFi standard with wider coverage and 1Gbps network speeds.
Generally, most people use wireless mode 802.11 b/g/n/. But sometimes old devices (especially old smartphones) do not work with this mode, so they connect to Wi-Fi, but there is no Internet.
One way to fix this problem is to log into the router's control panel through a computer, then find the section Wireless mode. Usually it is in settings wireless network (Wireless), where you set the name and password for the Wi-FI network. Next to Wireless Mode you will see a drop down menu, click on it, select 802.11b and save the changes. Now restart Wi-Fi on the devices that were unable to connect to the Internet and check if the problem has been resolved. If the Internet still doesn't work, try 802.11g wireless mode. If you are still unlucky, then look further for a solution to your problem.
6. Automatically obtain IP and DNS
If your smartphone or computer connects to another Wi-Fi network but does not work with your wireless network, there is a possibility of a DNS or IP address conflict. You can check this by ping your router via command line cmd line. If you get a time out response, then there is most likely an IP address conflict.
Ideally, you should configure your network settings to automatically obtain the IP address and DNS provided by your ISP. This ensures the least amount of conflicts. However, sometimes assigning a static IP address or changing the DNS server can help resolve Internet access problems. Conversely, if you are using a static IP address, then it would be wise to obtain an IP address automatically. In short, try changing the settings and see if you can fix the problem with Internet access.
To obtain an IP address automatically in Windows, press the keys Windows + R and enter " ncpa.cpl" in the Run dialog box that opens. When you press " OK", all your network connections will open. Right click on your network and select " Properties» in the context menu.
Now select " IPversion 4", and click " Properties"underneath it. In the next dialog box, select the option: " Obtain an IP address automatically" And " Obtain DNS server address automatically" Restart your computer and check your Internet access.
7. Problems with the network driver
Sometimes the problem with accessing the Internet is an old network driver. To update network driver on the computer, press the keys Window+R and enter " devmgmt.msc" You will open the window " device Manager».
In the menu on the left, expand the section " Network adapters" and right-click on your network. Now select the option " Update drivers", and you will get two options to update the driver: manually and automatically (online).
Try connecting your computer to your router using an Ethernet cable to access the Internet. If the connection is established, click " Automatic search updated drivers", and Windows will automatically find and install the required driver.
In case you are unable to connect to the Internet via an Ethernet cable, you will have to manually download latest driver from the manufacturer's website from another device, and then transfer it to a computer without access to the Internet. Next, select the option “ Search for drivers on your computer" to manually install the latest drivers.
8. Reset the router to factory settings
This is a pretty tough option, but in most cases it solves all problems associated with the router. You can reset your router to factory settings. This allows you to fix the problem with Internet access. This also means that you will have to reinstall basic settings, password and other network parameters.
You can reset the router to factory settings by pressing the reset button on the router itself. Usually the reset button is hidden inside a tiny hole, so you'll need a ballpoint pen or toothpick. Press the button and hold it for 5-15 seconds until all indicators start flashing.
9. Call your Internet Service Provider
If none of the methods solved your Internet access problem, then you should let your Internet service provider do it. They will conduct a consultation over the phone, and if necessary, they will send a specialist to your home.
Summing up
As I said before, there is no one way to solve the Internet access problem. The above tips should help you fix most software related issues. However, if the problem with accessing the Internet is related to the computer hardware - for example, the network card or a router, then you will have to turn to experienced specialists.
Internet and latest electronic technology are very closely woven into our lives. And sometimes problems with Internet access can ruin all our plans and interfere with our work or leisure. The phone not only helps you stay in touch, but also opens the door from anywhere to the World Wide Web, to the Internet. At the same time, no one is immune from sudden problems, then the question arises: why does the phone not connect to WiFi router? This information also applies to those users who do not know why the tablet does not connect to WiFi.
Let's look at the typical reasons below. It must be said right away that the solution may lie in simple manipulations with the phone. Therefore, apply all the methods described below, without thinking that this will not help in your situation.
What could be the reasons for WiFi not working on a phone or tablet?
First you need to restart your phone and turn off/on the Wi-Fi network on your phone. Then reboot your router(s). If there is still no network, then the problem is different. Another thing that might help is to remove the battery and connect it again, then restart the phone.
The causes of this problem may be the presence of incorrect network or router security settings, as well as the channel operating mode. What errors can we most often see on our device?
- In the connection status we see: “Obtaining an IP address...”, or simply “Connecting...”. But the phone does not connect to the network. That is, you specify the network where you want to connect, but the phone cannot do this.
- There is an authentication problem (authentication error), or simply the status “Authentication...” Usually in this case the message “Disabled” appears, and the phone is never connected to Wi-Fi.
- The message in the device is “Saved, WPA\WPA2 protected.”
- The phone connects to the router via Wi-Fi, but the Internet does not work and sites do not open in the browser.
What solutions could there be to get your phone or tablet to connect to WiFi?
So, possible options solutions to your problem.
Removing WiFi connection
The first thing I could advise you is to delete the connection that is saved on your phone. To do this, select the network through which you accessed the Internet and click on “Delete” or “Delete this network.” Below in the screenshot you can see what it looks like:
After that, try connecting to this network again.
Reboot the router
Sometimes, if there is a problem connecting not only your phone, but also other devices, you just need to reboot the router. A small note: you don’t just need to unplug and plug in the socket after a second, but unplug the router’s power cable for 10 seconds and only then plug it in again.
You must wait for some time so that there is no power left in the router. Such a circuit is often needed with other devices that are powered by energy. By the way, you can use the button that is on the router itself using the same procedure described above.
Changing the channel in the router
If you haven’t changed any settings and the connection with your router has always been without problems, then you should try changing the Wireless channel. This happens very rarely, but there is a small percentage that this setting can help you.
Where can you change the channel for your Wi-Fi? To do this, you need to go to your router’s settings in the “Wireless” tab and change the channel (Channel), then save the settings, reboot the router and try to connect. If it doesn’t work the first time, repeat the same scheme with other channels.
Check the password you enter when connecting to WiFi
If your phone displays an “Authentication” error, the problem may be an incorrect password or incorrect security settings.
The first step is to check that the password you have set is correct. How to do this, since some users may not be prompted to enter a password? You need to delete your connection and re-enter your password by clicking on your network. Always be careful when entering your password. If you have forgotten your password, you can look it up in the router settings.
Here are articles that will help you with this procedure:
If it's not a password issue, then you need to check your security settings. To do this, set the security type to WPA2. The password must be more than 8 characters and you can try use only numbers.
Saved, WPA\WPA2 protection and changing the password in the router
One of the most common problems is when the phone displays the message “Saved, WPA\WPA2 protected” and at the same time the connection icon may show the presence of a connection, but there is still no Internet in the device.
If the options described above do not help, then you need to check the Wireless mode/speed in the router settings ( wireless network), since the phone may not always support the router's operating mode. To do this, you need to set the network operating mode to automatic or mixed instead of b, g or n.
If you couldn't fix the problem and you are still faced with the dilemma of why your phone won't connect to WiFi, try changing the encryption/security type that I already mentioned:
- WPA/WPA2
- WPA-PSK
These are the settings on my router:
Enter a new password (key) of 8 characters or more. It is advisable to change the password, as you may have forgotten the password and are entering a non-existent one.
Next - the same scheme: save the settings, reboot the router, delete the connection on the phone and connect by entering New Password. It should be remembered that the new password will need to be specified in other devices that use this router. For example, if you have a laptop or computer at home, you need to reconnect to WiFi by entering the new password that you specified in the router.
Channel width
Change the Channel Width in the router settings. Usually there are several options: Auto, 20MHz and 40MHz. After the change, save and reboot the router.
If there are other options, try using them.
MAC and IP address filter
Make sure the MAC or IP address filter is disabled. If you have activated this function in your router and have not specified which MAC and IP addresses can connect to the routers, then the problem may be in this particular router setting.
Here are the most common reasons why a tablet or phone does not connect to WiFi. I hope one of my tips helps you.
By the way, if you have a problem with WiFi itself, then read the article “”:
Here is an example when a user could not connect to WiFi from an iPad:
