Fix: Android 14 WiFi Not Working or Keeps Disconnecting

Android 14 is now rolling out to Pixel and other OEM devices. This update introduces significant features and enhancements to improve the smartphone user experience. Although there are exciting new features, some minor glitches persist.

A common problem users are facing is Wi-Fi malfunction—either it doesn’t work or keeps disconnecting—following the upgrade to Android 14, an issue that didn’t exist beforehand. Some individuals struggle to connect to Wi-Fi networks. Even those that do often face random disconnections, which can be particularly frustrating for users who depend on Wi-Fi for their internet access.

Fortunately, a straightforward solution is available. In this article, we will examine the potential causes of this issue on Android 14 devices and provide guidance on how to resolve it easily. Let’s dive in!

Why Is My Wi-Fi Not Working or Keeps Disconnecting After Android 14 Update

As mentioned earlier, the Android 14 Wi-Fi issue has two faces. Some users cannot connect to the Wi-Fi network, while others have the issue where it keeps disconnecting each time they get connected. Unfortunately, it is difficult to determine the exact reason behind this issue.

As you might have already guessed, this issue has several reasons. These reasons range from software issues to hardware-level issues. However, since the issue began after updating to Android 14, the issue is most likely a software issue. Nevertheless, here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Software Issue: The update could have broken Wi-Fi connectivity due to bugs or malfunctions in the program.
2. Network Configuration: The network configuration you’re using might be incompatible with the changes made in Android 14.
3. Interference and Signal Strength: Weak Wi-Fi signals could result from electronic interference or adverse environmental circumstances.
4. Configuration Conflicts: Changing the default configuration or settings could cause incompatibilities with the current Wi-Fi setup.
5. DNS Issues: Your Internet Service Provider’s (ISP) default DNS servers may negatively affect Wi-Fi speeds and reliability.
6. Bluetooth and VPN Interference: Because of their shared usage of the same radio spectrum, Bluetooth and virtual private networks (VPNs) can pose problems for Wi-Fi.
7. Network Preferences: Turning on Wi-Fi automatically when it detects available networks may cause connectivity problems.
8. Malware or Problematic Apps: Apps that use too much data transfer or alter network configurations might be problematic and could cause Wi-Fi to stop working.

24 Ways to Fix Android 14 Wi-Fi Not Working or Keeps Disconnecting

Now that we have understood why the Wi-Fi isn’t working or keeps disconnecting, we can proceed with fixing the issue. Here, we have compiled a set of fixes that will help you fix the issue. Make sure to try all the fixes before you come to the conclusion.

Fix 1: Check your Internet Connection

The first step is to verify the integrity of the internet connection. Check your network for packet loss and latency, and ensure that the internet service provider is providing a stable connection. Tools like ping, traceroute, and network analyzers can be utilized to assess these parameters.

Fix 2: Check your Router Location

The router’s location significantly impacts Wi-Fi signal strength and stability. Moving the router to a central location, away from obstructions and electronic interference, ensures a more even distribution of the Wi-Fi signal throughout the premises, enhancing connectivity.

Fix 3: Restart your Router

Restarting the router helps clear its memory and resolves potential software glitches. It involves powering off the router, waiting for a brief interval, and then restarting it. This process re-establishes network connections and refreshes the router’s settings. Follow the steps below to restart your router:

1. Unplug your router from the power socket and let all the current drain out.
2. Wait for a few minutes.
3. Then, plug your router back in and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 4: Check your Internet Bill

Verifying the payment status of the internet bill ensures that the internet service remains active. An overdue bill can result in a service suspension, leading to disrupted Wi-Fi connectivity.

Make sure that you have cleared all your internet bills and that you have an active internet connection. Contact your ISP for better assistance on this matter.

Fix 5: Check MAC Address Filtering on your Router

MAC (Media Access Control) Address Filtering involves configuring the router to allow or deny specific devices based on their MAC addresses. Verifying and configuring these settings on the router ensures that the intended devices can connect to the network without restrictions.

If your phone has been filtered to be denied access to the router network, it will not be able to connect to Wi-Fi. If it’s your router, you can log in and check the MAC address filtering to see if the issue can be resolved from there. Follow the steps below:

1. Open your web browser and make sure you are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Enter the IP address of your router in the address bar. You can find the IP address on the back of your router.
3. Enter your username and password, provided by your ISP or that which is written on the back of your router, and log in.
4. Once you have logged in, check for a setting similar to Blocked Devices or MAC Filtering.
5. Make sure your phone’s MAC address is not listed there. If it is, remove it and save the configuration.
6. Now, simply restart your router and connect your phone to the Wi-Fi. Everything should go smoothly.

To find your phone’s MAC address, follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Wi-Fi.
4. Then, tap on the Wi-Fi network you are connected to or tap on the gear icon next to it.
5. Scroll down, and your MAC address should be listed under “MAC address.”

Fix 6: Reset your Router

A router reset means reverting the router settings to their default configurations. This process wipes out all custom settings and configurations, making it akin to a fresh start for the router. It’s an extensive step and should be used cautiously, typically as a last resort. Follow the steps below:

Note: Resetting a router will wipe out any changes you’ve made to its settings. Before resetting, make sure you have a backup of any crucial configurations. In addition, if you need detailed instructions on how to reset your router, your device’s manual is the best place to look.

1. There is usually a little hole or button on the underside or back of the router that serves as the reset button. Get at it with something like a pen or a paperclip.
2. It’s important to make sure that your router is plugged in.
3. Hold the reset button down for 10 to 15 seconds with the tool. Some routers will need more time.
4. Keep your finger on the reset button when you reconnect the router to its power source. Keep holding the reset button for now.
5. Hold down on the reset button until the router’s lights begin to flash.
6. Let go of the reset button once the lights have stopped blinking. The router has now been reset.

The last step is to change the network settings on your router, such as the network name (SSID) and password. You can change the router’s settings by going to the device’s default IP address (typically listed in the router’s manual) and entering it into a web browser.

Fix 7: Restart your Phone

Restarting the phone helps clear any temporary software glitches or conflicts affecting Wi-Fi functionality. This closes background processes and initiates a clean boot of the device, potentially resolving Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Follow the steps below:

1. Press and hold the Power button on your phone until the Power off menu appears.
2. Tap on Restart.
3. After the restart, check if the Wi-Fi connection is working as usual.

Fix 8: Toggle ON / OFF Airplane Mode

When activated, Airplane Mode prevents the device from making or receiving wireless connections. Wi-Fi and any other network connections will be reset if you turn it on and off again. Sometimes, doing this will fix Wi-Fi connectivity problems. Follow the steps below:

1. Swipe down from the top to access the Quick Settings menu.
2. Tap on the Airplane Mode icon (an Airplane silhouette) and make sure it changes the color.
3. Now, wait for a few seconds, tap on the icon again, and, this time, make sure it has turned grey.

Alternatively, you can also toggle Airplane mode from the settings app. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on the toggle next to Airplane mode to turn it on.
4. Tap on the toggle once again and turn it off.

Fix 9: Forget and Reconnect

You can also try to forget and reconnect a Wi-Fi network. This way, you will delete the network’s saved profile from your device. Reentering the Wi-Fi credentials when reconnecting ensures a brand-new connection that may be able to get around any connectivity troubles that may have arisen in the past. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Wi-Fi.
4. Then, tap on the Wi-Fi network you are connected to or tap on the gear icon next to it.
5. Tap on Forget.
6. Now, go back and tap on the Wi-Fi network again and connect to it.

Fix 10: Forget All Wi-Fi Networks

Forgetting all Wi-Fi networks has the same effect as forgetting a single network; it deletes any previously saved Wi-Fi profiles. This facilitates a clean start with Wi-Fi connections, which may remedy connectivity issues that have persisted through previously saved networks. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Wi-Fi.
4. Then, tap on the Wi-Fi network you have saved or tap on the gear icon next to it.
5. Tap on Forget.

Fix 11: Enable Network Preferences

You can also enable the Wi-Fi to turn on automatically each time it detects an open network or a saved network that is in range. This way, you don’t have to worry about turning on Wi-Fi each time you want to connect. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Wi-Fi.
4. Scroll down and tap on Network preferences.
5. Then, tap on the toggle next to Turn on Wi-Fi automatically.

Fix 12: Update Carrier Services

You need to keep your carrier services up to date for the Wi-Fi to function normally. If this is outdated, the Wi-Fi may not work properly. You can easily update the carrier services from the Google Play Store. Just follow these steps:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your phone.
2. Then, tap on the search bar at the top and start typing ”Carrier Services.”
3. From the search results, tap on Carrier Services.
4. If there is an update available, tap on “Update.”
5. After the update has been installed, simply restart your phone and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 13: Turn ON Wi-Fi Scan Throttling

If you are experiencing a slow Wi-Fi network speed, then turning on Wi-Fi Scan Throttling should help. This will reduce the battery drain as well as improve your Wi-Fi network performance and speed. It is a setting hidden in the Developer Options. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Scroll down all the way and tap on About phone.
3. Scroll down again and tap on the Build number a couple of times until you see a message saying, “You’re now a developer.”
4. Now, go back and tap on System.
5. Then, tap on Developer options.
6. Turn on the toggle for Developer options.
7. Scroll down to the Networking section and turn on the toggle next to Wi-Fi Scan Throttling.

Fix 14: Use a Different DNS

To make internet communication easier, DNS (Domain Name System) converts domain names into IP addresses. Sometimes, ISPs’ standard DNS servers are sluggish or unstable, which could interfere with Wi-Fi.

Changing to a different DNS provider, such as Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS, can improve the reliability and speed of their internet connection. The new DNS configurations’ more direct access to websites may minimize Wi-Fi issues brought on by DNS-related problems. Just follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Private DNS.
4. Tap on Select Private DNS Mode.
5. In the pop-up menu that appears, select Private DNS provider hostname.
6. Enter “1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com” (without quotes) in the blank field to use the Cloudflare DNS. However, if you want to use Google DNS, type “dns.google” (without quotes) instead.
7. Tap on Save and check to see if the issue still persists.

Fix 15: Turn OFF Bluetooth

If you turn off Bluetooth on your devices, they will no longer be able to talk to one another wirelessly. Because Bluetooth operates at the same 2.4 GHz band as Wi-Fi, disabling it can prevent interference with the latter. Follow the steps below:

1. Swipe down from the top to access the Quick Settings menu.
2. Tap on the Bluetooth icon and make sure it has turned grey.

Alternatively, you can also turn off Bluetooth from the settings app. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Connected devices.
3. Now, tap on Connection preferences.
4. Tap on Bluetooth and make sure the toggle is turned off.

Fix 16: Turn OFF VPN

VPNs encrypt data transmissions over the internet, which might cause interference with Wi-Fi networks. By disabling the VPN, you can be sure that your device will connect straight to the Wi-Fi network without any hiccups caused by the VPN setup. Follow the steps below to turn off the VPN:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on VPN.
4. Then, tap on the VPN network you have saved or tap on the gear icon next to it.
5. Either turn it off or tap on Forget.

You can also turn off the VPN from the VPN app. Simply open up the app and tap on Disconnect or something similar. Once you have disconnected, try checking if the Wi-Fi is now working.

Fix 17: Turn OFF Auto Switch to Mobile Network

Some devices will automatically switch to mobile data when the Wi-Fi signal is weak. Disabling this setting may prevent your device from accidentally switching to mobile data and keep it connected to your Wi-Fi network. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Wi-Fi.
4. Then, tap on Wi-Fi Assistant.
5. Turn off the toggle next to Auto switch to mobile network. This option is only available on OPPO, OnePlus, and realme devices.

Fix 18: Check Data Saver Settings

With Data Saver enabled, the device will use less data in the background. Apps that need constant network connectivity may stop working if you enable this setting. If you’re having connectivity problems, checking and modifying these settings may help. Follow the steps below:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on Network & internet.
3. From here, tap on Data Saver.
4. Tap on the toggle next to Use data saver and turn it off.

Fix 19: Check for Additional Patches

Periodically, OEMs will release patches and updates to their software to fix security flaws. To fix any known Wi-Fi problems, make sure your device has the most recent firmware by checking for and installing fixes. Follow the steps below to check for any available updates:

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on System.
3. Then, tap on Software Update.
4. Tap on Check for updates.
5. Your phone will now check for any available updates and prompt you to install them.
6. Tap on Download & install to start the update process.
7. Finally, tap on Restart to apply the update changes.

Fix 20: Reset Network Settings

When you reset your network settings, your device will restore its original factory settings for its network settings. Resetting the network to factory defaults can help fix intractable network issues. Follow the steps below to reset your network settings:

Note: Resetting the network settings will delete all your Wi-Fi networks, VPNs, Bluetooth networks, and other network-related settings.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on System.
3. Scroll down and tap on Reset options.
4. Then, tap on Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
6. Check to see if the Wi-Fi issue has been resolved.

Fix 21: Reset All Settings

This extensive step involves resetting all settings on the device to their factory defaults. It’s a comprehensive measure that can potentially resolve a wide range of software-related issues affecting Wi-Fi connectivity. Follow the steps below:

Note: Resetting all settings will delete all your configurations and preferences.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Then, tap on System.
3. Scroll down and tap on Reset options.
4. Then, tap on Reset app preferences.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
6. Check to see if the Wi-Fi issue has been resolved.

Fix 22: Check for Malware & Problematic Apps

Malware or problematic apps can interfere with Wi-Fi connectivity by consuming excessive bandwidth or modifying network settings. Scanning the device for malware and identifying problematic apps is essential to restore proper network functionality. Follow the steps below:

1. Find any recently installed apps and delete them one by one while simultaneously checking the Wi-Fi connection.
2. Update all your apps to the latest version available.
3. Go to the Google Play Store and tap on your profile icon at the top.
4. Then, tap on Manage apps & device.
5. Tap on See updates.
6. Install all the available updates.
7. Once the updates are installed, restart your phone and see if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 23: Factory Reset your Phone

A factory reset involves erasing all data and returning the device to its original, factory state. It’s a last-resort option to resolve persistent and severe Wi-Fi issues that haven’t been resolved by other solutions. Follow the steps below:

Note: A factory reset will restore your phone to its default configuration and state. All your apps and data will be removed from your device.

1. Open the Settings app on your phone.
2. Tap on Passwords & accounts.
3. Remove all the Google accounts linked to your phone.
4. Now, go back and tap on System.
5. Scroll down and tap on Reset options.
6. Then, tap on Erase all data (factory reset).
7. Tap on Erase all data at the bottom.
8. Enter your PIN, password, or pattern to confirm.
9. Tap on Erase all data again.
10. Your phone will restart several times, and it might take a long time to finish the reset.
11. Once the reset is completed, you will be greeted with the setup screen.
12. Simply complete the setup and see if the Wi-Fi is now working as expected.

Fix 24: Contact your Manufacturer

If all other fixes prove ineffective, contacting the device manufacturer’s support team can provide specialized guidance and potentially reveal specific issues related to the device or its software.

Final Words

That’s how you fix the Wi-Fi issues on your Android 14 device. Make sure to try all the solutions mentioned in this article before you contact the support team. Indeed, the Wi-Fi connection issue is daunting, and nobody wants to have such an issue.

Nevertheless, it should be understood that most new software versions are prone to such issues. However, these issues are ironed out by patches and fixes over time. Just don’t lose hope and try all the solutions.

We hope that you have successfully resolved the Wi-Fi not working or keeps disconnecting issues on your Android 14 phone. If you are still facing any issues, you should contact the respective support team for assistance. Lastly, if you have any further questions, let us know in the comments section below. Thanks for reading till the end!