Summary
- Resetting network settings on iPhone erases saved Wi-Fi settings, Bluetooth preferences, VPN settings, and custom DNS settings.
- To reset network settings on an iPhone, head into Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset. Tap "Reset Network Settings," enter iPhone passcode, then select "Reset Network Settings."
- If network issues persist, your carrier or ISP might have problems.
If you’re experiencing internet problems or your iPhone just won’t connect to Wi-Fi or cellular network, resetting the network settings can help fix the problem. I’ll show you how to do that on your iPhone.
What Happens When You Reset Network Settings on iPhone?
When you reset network settings on an iPhone, the following will happen:
- Your saved Wi-Fi names and passwords will be deleted. It may be a good idea to take note of your saved Wi-Fi passwords. Your iPhone lets you view your Wi-Fi passwords (in iOS 16 or later).
- Custom DNS settings, if any, will be erased.
- Cellular preferences will be removed. Your cellular data usage will be reset (Settings > Cellular > Usage).
- Bluetooth preferences will be erased. All of your saved paired connections will be removed.
- If you are using a VPN, your VPN settings (server names, passwords, etc.) will be erased.
- Your iPhone name (Settings > General > About) will be reset to the default, which is iPhone.
When Should You Perform a Network Reset?
There are many situations where a network reset can help. For example, if you have trouble connecting to Wi-Fi or you’re facing other network problems on your iPhone, resetting the network settings can likely resolve those issues. Additionally, it helps fix frequent Wi-Fi connection drops, if you’re experiencing that. It also helps resolve cellular issues such as No Service, Searching or SOS on your iPhone. It also helps troubleshoot the problem if you cannot make or receive phone calls.
If you experience any of these issues, first exhaust all other troubleshooting steps before resetting network settings. Some of the general strategies for fixing network problems include:
- Restarting your iPhone.
- Updating your iPhone to the latest version of iOS.
- Restarting your modem or wireless router.
- Toggling Airplane Mode on and off again.
How to Reset Network Settings on an iPhone
To reset network settings on an iPhone, launch Settings by tapping its icon on the home screen. Choose "General" from the options, select "Transfer or Reset iPhone."
On the following screen, choose "Reset."
On the next screen, choose "Reset Network Settings."
On the following screen, enter your iPhone passcode when asked.
You’ll get an alert telling you that “This will delete all network settings, returning them to factory defaults.” Tap "Reset Network Settings" to proceed.
iOS will begin erasing your network settings.
What to Do After Resetting the Network Settings?
After you’ve reset the network settings, you’ll want to configure a few network options to get connected to the internet. You’ll want to connect to your Wi-Fi networks by going to Settings, tapping Wi-Fi, Selecting your Wi-Fi name, and entering your Wi-Fi password. You may also want to reconfigure your VPN if you had one before.
If you had configured custom DNS settings, you may want to add those details again to your device, as network reset has erased them.
You may also want to change your iPhone name by going to Settings > General > About.
What if the Network Issues Persist Even After a Reset?
If you continue to face issues even after resetting your network settings, make sure you are in an area with good cell signal if you are using cellular network. If you continue to face problems, the issue might lie with carrier. In this case, you’ll have to contact them for help.
If you are having Wi-Fi issues, it’s possible your ISP (Internet Service Provider) has issues on its end. In this case, reach out to them and see what the problem is
And that’s how you reset network settings on iPhone and bring all the network settings back to the defaults. If that doesn’t help, you also have the option to factory reset your iPhone.
