How to reset network settings on a phone

A network reset puts a phone's Wi-Fi, mobile and Bluetooth connection settings back to their defaults. It can cure stubborn connection problems, but it also removes saved Wi-Fi networks, so prepare first.

When to use it

Treat this as a late step. Apple says to use it only if other steps have failed. Try the simpler fixes first: phone Wi-Fi problems and mobile data not working.

A network reset is not a factory reset. It does not delete your photos, apps, messages or accounts. It is a different option from the ones that erase everything, which sit nearby in the same menu.

What it removes

Menu names vary between phone makers and system versions, so read the description on your own screen.

Prepare first

1. Write down the names and passwords of the Wi-Fi networks you use. If you do not know your home password, see how to find or change your Wi-Fi password. Do this before the reset, because afterwards the phone will have forgotten them.
2. Note any Bluetooth devices you will need to pair again, such as headphones or a car.
3. If a school or employer manages the phone or its VPN, ask them first. They may need to set it up again.
4. Make sure the phone has enough battery, or plug it in.

Reset on an iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General.
3. Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
4. Tap Reset.
5. Tap Reset Network Settings. Enter your passcode if asked, then confirm.

The path is Settings then General then Transfer or Reset iPhone then Reset then Reset Network Settings. The iPhone restarts its network connections. Apple says this also clears VPN and APN settings, and cellular data roaming may switch off. Apple says that the device name goes back to iPhone.

Reset on Android

On a Google Pixel phone:

1. Open Settings then System then Reset options.
2. For a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth problem, tap Reset Bluetooth & Wi-Fi. For a mobile data or calling problem, tap Reset mobile network settings. Newer versions may combine them under a name such as Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
3. Read the warning, then confirm. Enter your screen lock if asked.

On Samsung and other phones, open Settings and search for reset to find the reset options. Look for a mention of network, Wi-Fi, mobile or Bluetooth in the option's name, and read its description before you confirm.

Check that it worked

1. Open the Wi-Fi settings and pick your network from the list.
2. Enter the password. The phone should show that it is connected.
3. Open a web page. If you reset mobile settings, switch Wi-Fi off and test a page over mobile data.
4. Pair your Bluetooth devices again if needed: pairing Bluetooth on Android and iPhone.

If something goes wrong

• Cannot rejoin Wi-Fi: check the password for capital letters and similar-looking characters. Try the other band if your router has two.
• No mobile data after reset: restart the phone, then check the mobile data switch. See mobile data not working.
• Still no luck: if other devices cannot get online either, check the router and ask your internet provider. Otherwise use the phone maker's support page.

Frequently asked questions