Can’t connect to WhatsApp on a Wi-Fi network? Here’s a workaround.
WhatsApp is the ultimate mobile messaging platform, with a record of over 1 billion users across the globe. The app, though requires stable internet connection, could be run on either mobile or Wi-Fi network.
However, some users have complained of not being able to connect to the app via a Wi-Fi network. And the magnitude of these complaints indicates culpability on the part of the app.
In any case, we’ll be showing you how to get around this.
Fix: WhatsApp Not Connecting to Wi-Fi
A number of things could be out of place when this error occurs, and these typically range from issues with the Wi-Fi source to those associated with the app or the host device.
Here are the recommended troubleshooting methods:
Note: Ensure that the background data usage for WhatsApp is enabled.
Method 1: Restart Wi-Fi
To do this:
- go to Settings
- select Wi-Fi (or Network & Internet > Wi-Fi)
- turn off Wi-Fi and then turn it back on after a few seconds.
Note: If you’re using a router, restart the router as well.
If the problem persists, try the next method.
Method 2: Restart Phone
The problem here could be a mild device glitch. And such can easily be fixed by restarting your phone. Simply close the app, turn off Wi-Fi and restart phone.
After restart, reconnect Wi-Fi and launch WhatsApp. It should now connect fine. If the problem persists, proceed with the next method.
Method 3: Check and Disable Firewall & VPN
WhatsApp does not support any VPN service (by default). So, if you have a VPN installed, it could be what’s interfering with your connectivity. To fix this, simply disable the VPN service on your phone, and try connecting without it.
In the same vein, try and disable any firewall or add WhatsApp to its list of exceptions.
Still unable to connect? Try the next method.
Method 4: Update or Reinstall WhatsApp
WhatsApp releases new updates regularly. So, ensure you have the latest update/version installed. Better still, simply uninstall the program completely; then, reinstall the latest version from Play Store (for Android) or App Store (for iPhone/iPad users).
Ultimately, if you’re still unable to connect, you may have to reset your phone (to factory settings) or upgrade your OS.
Hope you were able to fix the WhatsApp not connecting to Wi-Fi problem? Let us know by dropping a comment below.