Updated! 10 Fixes to iPhone Network not Available

It can be kind of inconvenient and frustrating when your iPhone says network not available. Here in this guide, we will help figure out the causes and also workable solutions to help you get out of the issue.

Demi by Demi Updated November 13, 2023
Share this:

In the fast-paced digital world, staying connected is paramount, and any disruption in network availability can be a source of immense frustration. iPhone users occasionally encounter the ominous message – "Network Not Available."

iphone network not available

This article aims to delve into the reasons behind this issue and provide an updated guide with 10 effective fixes to restore your iPhone's connectivity.

Why is iPhone saying network not available?

“Why is my iPhone saying network not available?”, you may ask the question. The following will show you the main causes to the issue - network not available on iPhone.

⛔ Cellular Network Issues
The problem could be a local cellular network outage, carrier issues, or SIM card problems, occurring about once every few months.

⛔ Software Glitches
iOS complexities may lead to glitches, causing the "Network Not Available" problem, with 15-20% of iPhone users experiencing connectivity issues.

⛔ SIM Card Issues
Problems like improper insertion or damage to the SIM card can trigger the "Network Not Available" message.

⛔ Airplane Mode Activation
Accidentally enabling Airplane Mode can disable all wireless connections, prompting the "Network Not Available" message.

⛔ Carrier Settings Update
Keeping carrier settings updated is crucial for proper network functionality; outdated settings may lead to network issues.

Top 10 fixes to iPhone network not available

In fact, in most of the cases, “iPhone network not available” issue can be resolved just with a couple of taps. Listed below are 10 of those simple remedies for the reference of our readers.

1# Check your coverage area

Firstly, you may need to make sure you’re in an area with mobile network coverage. Here are what you should check:

• Turn on and off mobile data, go to Settings > Tap Cellular to toggle the switch off, wait for seconds, and turn it on.

• If you’re travelling abroad, make sure your iPhone have been set up for data roaming by going to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Toggle on Data Roaming.

data roaming

2# Force restart your iPhone

It is recommended to force restart your iPhone. It can help restart background services and fix many of the basic glitches associated with your iOS. To fix iPhone network not available issue by force restarting iPhone:

• iPhone 8 and later: Press and quickly release the Volume + button > Perform the same operation on the Volume - button > Press the Side button and release when you see the Apple logo.
• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume - button and the Power button > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the Power button and the Home button for seconds > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

hard reset iphone

3# Turn on and off Airplane mode

If checking cellular data and force restarting your iPhone don’t work for you, try turning on and off the Airplane mode to troubleshoot.

Swipe up to access the Control Center and turn on the option for Airplane mode. Let it stay for at least 10 -15 minutes. Turn it off again and use your phone without any hassle.

enable airplane mode

4# Check for Network Provider Settings update

If you insert a new SIM card into your iPhone or activate iPhone 14 eSIM but find the network not available, you may need to download the network provider settings for your new network provider. Here’s how to do.

Make sure your iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi, tap Settings > General > About. If an update is available, you’ll see an option to update your network provider settings.

update the carrier

5# Turn off VPN

VPNs and private DNS providers protect your privacy by hiding your IP address. However, some carriers in certain regions may block these services. You can usually turn off such services from dedicated apps or use the Settings app on your iPhone.

Open the iPhone Settings > General > Tap VPN & Device Management > Turn off the toggle for Status at the top.

disable vpn

6# Disable Low Data Mode

If you enabled Low Data Mode, it may be the reason why your iPhone says network not available. Thus, follow the steps below to turn off the function if you have enabled it.

Head to the Settings app > Cellular > Tap and select Cellular Data Options > Scroll down and disable Low Data Mode.

low data mode

7# Turn off and on mobile line

If you’re still facing the iPhone network not available issue, try toggling off the mobile line. It helps refreshes the network configuration on your iPhone, which could be helpful.

To turn off and on mobile line, go to iPhone Settings > Cellular > Choose your Carrier > Toggle the switch next to Turn On This Line. Wait for seconds, and re-enable it to check whether your iPhone can get access to the network.

turn off mobile line

8# Reset network settings

If the issue is related to misconfigured network settings or incorrect carrier configuration updates, you can try resetting your network settings. This will also reset Wi-Fi networks and passwords, mobile data settings, and VPN and APN settings that you've used before.

To reset network settings, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Tap Reset Network Settings. Finally, enter your passcode to confirm your operation.

reset network settings

9# Update iOS to the latest version

If none of the solution above works, you should try a somewhat sophisticated solution, which is updating iOS to the latest version.

Go to Settings on your iPhone > Tap General Software Update > If any update is available, download and install it.

ios software update

10# Contact your network provider

If none of the above solutions work, it's time to reach out to your carrier's customer support. They can provide assistance, check your account status, and troubleshoot network issues specific to your carrier.

Summary

iPhone network not available can be a source of inconvenience, but armed with the right solutions, you can quickly restore connectivity. From basic troubleshooting like restarting your device to more advanced steps like resetting network settings, these fixes cater to a range of potential issues. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and implementing these solutions will ensure that you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity on your iPhone.

FoneTool - All-in-one iPhone Data Manager

Transfer, backup and manage data on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch in an easy way.

  • iOS 17 Compatible
  • iPhone 15 Supported

Free iPhone Manager - FoneTool

  • Full/Selective Backup iPhone
  • Transfer between iPhone and PC
  • 1-Click Transfer iPhone to iPhone
  • WhatsApp Backup & Transfer
  • Fully compatible with iOS 17
Download Free
Download icon

100% Secure

Downloading.com Rating
Android
Android Transfer is Now Supported!

Easiest way to transfer photos, videos, music, etc., between Android phone and iPhone.

Learn More >>