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Mobile data keeps us connected wherever we go, whether we’re checking emails, browsing social media, or streaming content. However, there are instances when mobile data inexplicably stops working, leaving us disconnected and frustrated. Understanding why this happens and knowing how to fix it can save us from moments of inconvenience.
This article discusses the reasons that might cause issues with your mobile data and nine methods to help you fix the issue.
Below we have discussed:
Why is the Mobile Data not working?
Here are a few reasons that might affect your mobile data:
- Airplane mode is on.
- Temporary glitches.
- Data limit exceeded.
- Damaged or improperly inserted SIM card.
- Outdated software.
- Incorrect network settings.
Also read: What to do if the internet isn’t working?
How to fix it?
Here are nine methods to help you fix the issue:
Disable/Enable Airplane mode
This mode disables all wireless connections, including mobile data and WiFi. Double-check that Airplane Mode is disabled in your phone’s settings. Additionally, toggling airplane mode can reset your phone’s settings and restore normal functionality. If your device wasn’t in airplane mode previously, try enabling and disabling it to see if that resolves your data connectivity issues. Here’s how to enable/disable Airplane mode:
On iPhone
- Go to the settings app and turn the toggle on beside the Airplane Mode.
- Alternatively, you can swipe up to open the control centre and tap on the Airplane mode icon to enable it.
On Android
- Go to the Settings on your phone and tap on Network & Internet.
- Turn the toggle on beside Aeroplane mode.
- Alternatively, you can turn it on through the Notification panel. Slide down from the top to access the Notification panel, then tap the Aeroplane mode icon.
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Restart your phone
Restarting your phone can sometimes solve different problems, including issues with mobile data. Turn off your phone completely, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on. This action refreshes the device’s system and can often resolve connectivity issues. After restarting your phone, check if your mobile data is working again.
Check network coverage
Poor network coverage is one of the most common reasons for mobile data failure. If you’re in an area with weak or no signal, your mobile data won’t work. To check if this is the issue, move to a different location or check your network provider’s coverage map to see any reported outages or weak signal areas. If you’re in a remote location, you may need to wait until you’re in an area with better coverage.
Data limit exceeded
Many mobile plans limit the amount of data you can use. If you exceed this limit, your carrier might slow down your internet speed or stop your data entirely. To check if this is the issue, log in to your carrier’s website or app and check how much data you’ve used. If you’ve hit your limit, you could consider upgrading your plan or buying more data.
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Check your SIM card
Issues with your SIM card, like damage or improper insertion, can mess up your mobile data. Remove the SIM card from your phone and insert it properly. Try using your SIM card on a different phone to check if the problem continues. If it does, you might have to get a new SIM card.
Update your phone
Ensuring your phone is always running the latest software updates can help avoid potential mobile data issues. When you regularly update your operating system, you get fixes for bugs and enhancements that can solve problems with connecting to mobile data. Here are the steps to do that:
On iPhone
- Go to the Settings app on your phone and tap on General.
- Tap on Software Update.
- If an update is available, install it and download the app again.
On Android
- Go to Settings and tap on the System updates option.
- Now, tap on Check for updates and install it, if any update is available.
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Reset Network settings
If the basic fixes don’t work, try resetting your network settings. This will erase any saved WiFi passwords and Bluetooth connections, but it can also resolve network-related issues hindering your mobile data connection. Here’s how to do it:
On iPhone
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on General.
- Tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Now, tap on Reset.
- Tap on Reset Network Settings.
- Enter the passcode and tap on Reset Network Settings to confirm your action.
On Android
- Go to Settings, scroll down and tap on System.
- Tap on Reset options.
- Tap on Reset Wi-Fi, mobile and Bluetooth option.
- Now, tap on the Reset settings button.
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Factory reset your phone
If all the above do not work for you, then you might try factory resetting your phone. This will erase all your data and settings, restoring your phone to its original state. Be sure to back up your phone before performing a factory reset.
On iPhone
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on General.
- Tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap on the Erase all Content and Settings option.
- Tap on the Continue button.
On Android
- Go to Settings and tap on System.
- Tap on Reset options.
- Now, tap on the Erase all data (factory reset) option and then follow the on-screen instructions.
Seek professional help
Sometimes, something might be wrong with the parts inside your phone, like the antenna or modem, which could be causing your mobile data troubles. If you’ve tried all the above fixes and your mobile data still isn’t working, it may be time to contact your device manufacturer or carrier for further assistance or consider getting your device inspected by a professional.
Also read: Fix: Macbook is connected to WiFi but there is no internet
