It’s one of the most confusing problems: your phone shows Wi-Fi connected, signal is full, but internet doesn’t work at all. Apps don’t load, websites fail to open, and sometimes the problem fixes itself temporarily and comes back again.
I personally faced this issue at home where my phone was connected to Wi-Fi, but nothing worked—while other devices were working fine. After checking DNS settings and network configuration, I fixed the issue without changing my internet plan or router.
In this article, I’ll explain why Wi-Fi shows connected but internet doesn’t work and share practical fixes that actually work.
How This Problem Usually Appears
You may notice:
- Wi-Fi connected but no internet
- Apps show “No connection”
- Internet works on mobile data but not Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi reconnects again and again
- Works on other phones but not yours
This usually means the issue is device-level, not always the router.
Common Reasons Wi-Fi Has No Internet Access
1. DNS Server Issues
DNS fails even when Wi-Fi is connected.
2. IP Address Conflict
Your phone may not get a proper IP address.
3. Router Cache or Temporary Bug
Routers sometimes glitch without disconnecting Wi-Fi.
4. Private DNS or VPN Conflict
Custom DNS or VPN can block access.
5. Network Settings Corruption
Saved Wi-Fi configuration may be broken.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Turn Wi-Fi Off and On
This refreshes the connection.
- Turn Wi-Fi off
- Wait 10 seconds
- Turn it on again
- Reconnect to the network
Simple, but effective.
Method 2: Restart Router and Phone
This was the fix that worked for me.
- Turn off router for 30–60 seconds
- Restart your phone
- Turn router back on
- Reconnect Wi-Fi
This clears temporary network bugs.
Method 3: Forget and Reconnect Wi-Fi Network
Corrupted Wi-Fi settings cause this issue.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Wi-Fi
- Tap the connected network
- Select Forget
- Restart phone
- Reconnect Wi-Fi and enter password
This fixes many hidden issues.
Method 4: Disable Private DNS or VPN
Private DNS often causes connectivity issues.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Network
- Disable Private DNS
- Turn off VPN completely
- Test internet again
If internet works, DNS was the cause.
Method 5: Change DNS Manually
DNS change often fixes the issue instantly.
Recommended DNS:
- Google DNS:
8.8.8.8/8.8.4.4 - Cloudflare DNS:
1.1.1.1
Set DNS manually and reconnect Wi-Fi.
Method 6: Reset Network Settings
This fixes corrupted network configuration.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → System
- Tap Reset options
- Select Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth
- Confirm reset
- Reconnect Wi-Fi
This does not delete personal data.
Method 7: Check Date & Time Settings
Incorrect time breaks secure connections.
- Enable Automatic date & time
- Restart phone
- Reconnect Wi-Fi
This fix is often overlooked.
Why Wi-Fi Works on Other Devices but Not Yours
This happens because:
- Device-specific DNS conflict
- Corrupted saved network
- App or VPN interference
- Background system bug
That’s why resetting network settings often works.
What You Should Avoid
- Installing random Wi-Fi booster apps
- Changing router settings blindly
- Ignoring DNS conflicts
- Factory reset without testing fixes
These make the issue worse.
FAQs
Can Wi-Fi show connected without internet?
Yes, Wi-Fi only shows router connection—not internet access.
Does resetting network settings delete data?
No, only saved networks and Bluetooth devices.
Can updates cause this issue?
Yes, sometimes network settings break after updates.
Should I contact my ISP?
Only if all devices have no internet.
Final Thoughts
If your phone shows Wi-Fi connected but internet isn’t working, the issue is usually DNS, network configuration, or temporary router bugs—not your internet plan.
From my experience, forgetting the Wi-Fi network and changing DNS fixed the issue immediately. Always try device-level fixes before calling your ISP.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.