WiFi randomly disconnects

On both my (3rd gen SE) and my wife's (2nd gen SE) iPhones, WiFi drops randomly. This started a few months ago, can't precisely correlate it to an iOS version but since it was working fine before, it must be software-related.


If this is deliberate, it's disgusting that Apple happily eats up your data, which in some countries like the one I'm living in now (South Africa) is really expensive. WiFi should always be used if available.


I now have to turn off mobile data explicitly just to be sure the iPhone doesn't fall back to it because of this bug.


Apple, you need to fix this!

Posted on Jan 1, 2024 12:44 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 1, 2024 1:00 AM

fransflippo wrote:

If this is deliberate, it's disgusting that Apple happily eats up your data, which in some countries like the one I'm living in now (South Africa) is really expensive. WiFi should always be used if available.

It's unlikely that Apple deliberately designs its devices to drop WiFi connections to consume more cellular data intentionally. Issues like WiFi drops can stem from various factors like network settings, or hardware malfunctions.


Apple typically aims to optimize user experiences and enhance the functionality of their devices. They continuously release updates to address such issues reported by users. It's a good idea to ensure your devices have the latest software updates installed and to troubleshoot the WiFi connection problems or seek assistance from Apple Support if the issue persists.


Concerns about data usage costs, especially in areas with expensive cellular plans, are understandable. Apple generally offers settings that prioritize WiFi over cellular data to minimize costs, and they tend to encourage users to connect to WiFi whenever possible for better speed and cost efficiency.


  1. If the issue persists, you can try resetting all settings on your iPhone. This will not erase your data but will reset all personalized settings to their default values. Go to Settings > General > Transfer & Reset > Reset > Reset All Settings and confirm the action. Note that you will need to reconfigure your settings afterward. All settings—including network settings, the keyboard dictionary, the Home screen layout, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards—are removed or reset to their defaults. No data or media are deleted.
    1. Reset All Settings: Return iPhone settings to their defaults - Apple Support:- Return iPhone settings to their defaults
    2. You can return settings to their defaults without erasing your content.
    3. If you want to save your settings, back up your iPhone before returning them to their defaults. For example, if you’re trying to solve a problem but returning settings to their defaults doesn’t help, you might want to restore your previous settings from a backup.
  2. Make sure you have the latest updates installed.
    1. Update Over-the-Air (OTA) —> Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support (IN)
    2. Update using iTunes/Finder —> Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support (IN)


If you're experiencing consistent WiFi issues, contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider might help diagnose and resolve the problem.


It is recommended to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your device model and iOS version.


Similar questions

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jan 1, 2024 1:00 AM in response to fransflippo

fransflippo wrote:

If this is deliberate, it's disgusting that Apple happily eats up your data, which in some countries like the one I'm living in now (South Africa) is really expensive. WiFi should always be used if available.

It's unlikely that Apple deliberately designs its devices to drop WiFi connections to consume more cellular data intentionally. Issues like WiFi drops can stem from various factors like network settings, or hardware malfunctions.


Apple typically aims to optimize user experiences and enhance the functionality of their devices. They continuously release updates to address such issues reported by users. It's a good idea to ensure your devices have the latest software updates installed and to troubleshoot the WiFi connection problems or seek assistance from Apple Support if the issue persists.


Concerns about data usage costs, especially in areas with expensive cellular plans, are understandable. Apple generally offers settings that prioritize WiFi over cellular data to minimize costs, and they tend to encourage users to connect to WiFi whenever possible for better speed and cost efficiency.


  1. If the issue persists, you can try resetting all settings on your iPhone. This will not erase your data but will reset all personalized settings to their default values. Go to Settings > General > Transfer & Reset > Reset > Reset All Settings and confirm the action. Note that you will need to reconfigure your settings afterward. All settings—including network settings, the keyboard dictionary, the Home screen layout, location settings, privacy settings, and Apple Pay cards—are removed or reset to their defaults. No data or media are deleted.
    1. Reset All Settings: Return iPhone settings to their defaults - Apple Support:- Return iPhone settings to their defaults
    2. You can return settings to their defaults without erasing your content.
    3. If you want to save your settings, back up your iPhone before returning them to their defaults. For example, if you’re trying to solve a problem but returning settings to their defaults doesn’t help, you might want to restore your previous settings from a backup.
  2. Make sure you have the latest updates installed.
    1. Update Over-the-Air (OTA) —> Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support (IN)
    2. Update using iTunes/Finder —> Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support (IN)


If you're experiencing consistent WiFi issues, contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider might help diagnose and resolve the problem.


It is recommended to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center for further assistance. They can provide specific guidance based on your device model and iOS version.


Jan 1, 2024 12:50 AM in response to fransflippo

fransflippo wrote:

On both my (3rd gen SE) and my wife's (2nd gen SE) iPhones, WiFi drops randomly. This started a few months ago, can't precisely correlate it to an iOS version but since it was working fine before, it must be software-related.

Intermittent disruptions in your WiFi connection might stem from router misconfigurations. It could be beneficial to reach out to the agency responsible for installing your router to troubleshoot and rectify any potential setup issues. They possess the expertise to delve into the router's settings, ensuring optimal functionality and a stable connection.

Jan 1, 2024 12:55 AM in response to fransflippo

fransflippo wrote:


I now have to turn off mobile data explicitly just to be sure the iPhone doesn't fall back to it because of this bug.

Mobile Data does not require WiFi. You need to provide more clarity on the issue faced by you.


Turning off mobile data on your iPhone shouldn't directly affect your Wi-Fi connection. When you disable mobile data, it simply prevents your phone from using cellular data for internet access and other online activities. Your device should still be able to connect to and use Wi-Fi networks normally.


However, if there's a specific bug or issue on the device causing both Wi-Fi and mobile data problems, it's possible that toggling off mobile data might somehow temporarily stabilize or influence the Wi-Fi behavior due to how the phone handles network switching or prioritization.


If you've observed a change in Wi-Fi behavior when turning off mobile data, it might be more of an indirect effect or coincidence related to how the device manages different network connections. It's worth troubleshooting the Wi-Fi issue separately to isolate and address the root cause of the disconnections.

Jan 1, 2024 12:50 AM in response to fransflippo

fransflippo wrote:

Apple, you need to fix this!

This is a user-to-user public forum.


This platform serves as a space for users to engage in meaningful conversations, share information, and exchange ideas related to Apple products. It's a community-driven initiative where users support each other by sharing their experiences and technical expertise in using Apple devices. While Apple Inc. is not actively participating in these discussions, the forum is a valuable resource for seeking guidance and assistance from fellow users who possess a wealth of experience with Apple products. Feel free to explore the discussions, ask questions, and benefit from the collective knowledge of this community.



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WiFi randomly disconnects

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