Mobile Data Not Working? How to Fix APN Issues

Mobile Data Not Working? Here's How to Fix It

If your mobile data has stopped working, don't panic. In most cases the fix is straightforward. This guide walks you through the most common causes and step-by-step solutions to get your data connection back up and running.

Step 1: Check Mobile Data Is Turned On

It sounds obvious, but it's the most common cause. Mobile data can be accidentally toggled off.

• Android: Swipe down from the top of the screen and check the Mobile Data quick-settings tile is enabled.
• iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile Data and make sure the toggle is green (on).

Step 2: Toggle Airplane Mode

Turning Airplane Mode on and off forces your phone to reconnect to the network. This clears temporary connection glitches.

1. Open Settings or swipe down to the quick-settings panel.
2. Turn Airplane Mode on.
3. Wait 10 seconds.
4. Turn Airplane Mode off.
5. Wait for your signal bars to return and try loading a webpage.

Step 3: Restart Your Phone

A simple restart clears cached network data and re-establishes your connection to the mobile network. Hold the power button, select Restart, and wait for your phone to boot back up.

Step 4: Check Your APN Settings

Incorrect APN settings are one of the top reasons mobile data fails. This often happens after a SIM swap, network switch, or phone reset.

• Android: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names and verify the settings match your network provider.
• iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Network and check the APN field.

Find the correct settings for your network: EE | Vodafone | O2 | Three | giffgaff

Step 5: Check Your SIM Card

A loose or damaged SIM card can cause data issues.

1. Power off your phone.
2. Remove the SIM card tray using a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip.
3. Take the SIM card out, check for visible damage, and gently clean the gold contacts.
4. Reinsert the SIM card firmly and power your phone back on.

If you're using an eSIM, try toggling the eSIM line off and on in your mobile settings.

Step 6: Reset Network Settings

This is the nuclear option — it resets all network configurations including Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth pairings, and APN settings back to factory defaults.

• Android: Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings
• iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings

After resetting, you'll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and may need to re-enter your APN settings. See our guides for Android APN setup and iPhone APN setup.

Step 7: Check for a Network Outage

If none of the above works, the problem may not be on your end. Check your network provider's service status page or social media channels for reported outages in your area.

Still Not Working?

If you've tried everything and your mobile data still isn't working, contact your network provider directly. They can check your account status, verify your SIM is active, and send fresh APN settings to your device over the air.

For businesses with multiple devices experiencing issues, a centralised approach saves time. Business mobile plans from Connection Technologies include full device setup and support.

Managing multiple business devices? Connection Technologies can configure APN settings across your entire fleet. Get a free quote or call 0333 015 2615.