Few problems are more frustrating than your Android phone showing “Wi-Fi connected” but no internet access. You might be able to see the Wi-Fi signal, but web pages don’t load, apps won’t sync, and streaming stops abruptly.
Fortunately, this issue is usually caused by common, fixable factors like network settings, software glitches, or router problems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step solutions to restore internet connectivity on your Android device.
Why Android Shows Wi-Fi Connected but No Internet
Understanding the causes helps you troubleshoot effectively. Common reasons include:
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Router or Modem Issues: Temporary network failures or misconfigured devices.
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IP Address Conflicts: Multiple devices on the same network may cause conflicts.
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Incorrect Network Settings: Misconfigured DNS, static IP, or proxy settings.
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Software Glitches: Temporary bugs in Android or Wi-Fi drivers.
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Weak Signal Strength: Distance or interference can prevent internet access.
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ISP Issues: Internet outage from your service provider.
Most causes can be resolved with simple fixes at home.
1. Restart Your Android Phone
Temporary glitches in Wi-Fi or Android’s networking services can cause connectivity issues.
Fix:
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Press and hold the Power button
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Select Restart
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Reconnect to Wi-Fi
Restarting clears memory and often restores internet access.
2. Restart Your Router or Modem
Router glitches are one of the most common reasons for Wi-Fi without internet.
Steps:
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Turn off the router/modem
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Wait 30–60 seconds
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Turn it back on
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Reconnect your Android phone
Restarting the router refreshes network settings and resolves temporary outages.
3. Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network
Incorrect authentication or cached network settings can block internet access.
Steps:
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Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap your network → Forget
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Reconnect by entering the Wi-Fi password
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Test the internet
Re-establishing the connection often solves the issue.
4. Toggle Airplane Mode
Switching Airplane Mode on and off forces your phone to reconnect to Wi-Fi and cellular networks.
Steps:
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Swipe down from the notification panel
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Turn Airplane Mode On for 10–15 seconds
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Turn it Off
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Reconnect to Wi-Fi
This simple trick can resolve temporary network conflicts.
5. Check Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date and time can cause authentication failures with Wi-Fi networks.
Fix:
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Settings → System → Date & Time → Enable Automatic Date & Time
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Ensure time zone is correct
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Reconnect to Wi-Fi
Proper time settings allow your phone to communicate securely with the network.
6. Reset Network Settings
Misconfigured network settings often prevent internet access. Resetting restores default settings.
Steps:
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Settings → System → Reset → Reset Network Settings
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Confirm the reset
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Reconnect to Wi-Fi and test
Note: This removes saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections.
7. Check for IP Address Conflicts
Some networks assign the same IP address to multiple devices, causing connectivity issues.
Fix:
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Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap your network → Advanced → IP Settings → Static → Assign a new IP
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Save and reconnect
This resolves conflicts that prevent internet access.
8. Change DNS Settings
Sometimes the default DNS server may fail. Switching to a reliable public DNS can restore access.
Steps:
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Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap your network → Advanced → IP Settings → Static → DNS 1 and DNS 2
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Use DNS servers like 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS)
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Save changes and reconnect
Custom DNS can bypass ISP-related issues.
9. Disable VPN or Proxy
VPNs and proxy servers can interfere with network connectivity.
Fix:
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Disconnect from VPN or proxy
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Test internet access on Wi-Fi
If this works, check your VPN settings or switch servers.
10. Update Android Software
Software bugs can cause Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Updating Android can fix these glitches.
Steps:
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Settings → System → Software Update → Check for Updates
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Download and install updates
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Restart your phone and reconnect to Wi-Fi
Regular updates improve network stability and performance.
11. Check Router Settings
Some routers have features like MAC address filtering, parental controls, or firewall settings that may block devices.
Steps:
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Log in to the router admin panel
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Ensure your phone’s MAC address is allowed
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Disable unnecessary restrictions temporarily
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Reconnect your Android device
Router misconfigurations are a common source of “Wi-Fi connected but no internet” issues.
12. Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)
If all fixes fail, the problem may be with your ISP.
Steps:
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Call or check your ISP’s website for outages
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Ask if there are connection issues in your area
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Follow any instructions to reset your internet service
ISPs can resolve network problems beyond your control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why does my Wi-Fi say connected but not work on Android?
A1: Causes include router issues, IP conflicts, misconfigured settings, or software glitches.
Q2: Will resetting network settings delete my Wi-Fi passwords?
A2: Yes, it removes saved networks and Bluetooth devices, but solves connectivity issues.
Q3: Can DNS changes fix Wi-Fi issues?
A3: Yes. Switching to reliable DNS servers like Google DNS can restore internet access.
Q4: Does VPN affect Wi-Fi connectivity?
A4: Sometimes. VPNs can block internet access or cause conflicts with certain networks.
Q5: How do I know if the problem is my phone or ISP?
A5: Test other devices on the same Wi-Fi. If they work, the issue is your phone; if not, it’s the ISP.
Final Thoughts
Wi-Fi connectivity without internet is frustrating but usually fixable without professional help. Start with simple steps like restarting your phone and router, forgetting and reconnecting to the network, and checking date/time settings, then proceed to advanced fixes like resetting network settings or changing DNS.
By following these step-by-step solutions, you can restore internet access, improve network stability, and enjoy seamless browsing, streaming, and app usage on your Android device. Regular maintenance and updates prevent many Wi-Fi issues from occurring in the future.