How to Fix WiFi Not Connecting Automatically After Restart on iOS

Once your iPhone connects to a Wi-Fi network, it remembers the SSID and reconnects automatically when you are nearby. However, some iPhones may fail to connect to Wi-Fi after a reboot. To resolve this issue, we have provided a comprehensive set of solutions. Follow the step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and fix this problem.

Fix 1 – Manually Configure Your Wi-Fi

Manually configuring the Wi-Fi instead of relying on the automatic connection setup can help.

Step 1 – Start by navigating to the Settings page.

Step 2 – Access the “Wi-Fi” settings.

Step 3 – Identify the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to and tap the small “i” icon.

Step 4 – The next page displays all the Wi-Fi settings. Make a note of the following:

IP Address

Subnet Mask

Router

Step 5 – Return to the Wi-Fi information page.

Step 6 – Tap “Forget This Network” to remove the Wi-Fi credentials from your device.

Step 7 – You will be taken back to the Wi-Fi page.

Step 8 – Open the same Wi-Fi settings page again.

Step 9 – Scroll down and select “Configure IP” under the ‘IPV4 address’ section.

Step 10 – Choose “Manual” mode.

Step 11 – Enter the network credentials exactly as noted earlier. Ensure accuracy to avoid connection issues.

Step 12 – Tap “Save” once finished.

Step 13 – Return to the previous page and select “Join This Network.”

Step 14 – Enter the Wi-Fi password to connect.

After joining, restart your iPhone to check if it connects automatically to the Wi-Fi.

Fix 2 – Update Your iPhone

This issue is a known bug in iOS 17, so updating your iPhone can potentially resolve it.

Step 1 – Go to the iPhone Settings.

Step 2 – Navigate to the “General” section.

Step 3 – Look for the “Software Update” option and tap it.

Step 4 – If an update is available, tap “Install Now” to begin the installation process.

Your iPhone will verify the update and install it. The device may reboot during this process. Once completed, reconnect to your Wi-Fi; it should no longer forget the network.

Fix 3 – Replace the Router

If the issue persists on iOS 18 or later, your router could be the problem. Consider replacing an older router with a newer model and test the connection.

If you don’t have access to a different router, try creating a mobile hotspot and connecting your iPhone to it. This can help determine if the router is causing the issue.

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