TL;DR
WiFi authentication errors happen when your device fails to verify its credentials with a known network. Common culprits include airplane mode being active, a weak router signal, or a recent software update. Before troubleshooting, consider whether the network is trustworthy — public WiFi carries real security risks. If it is, a six-step process (from forgetting the network and re-entering your password to resetting your router or restoring factory settings) can typically resolve the issue. Using a VPN is also recommended for safer mobile browsing.
What causes wifi authentication errors?
You attempt to connect to a WiFi server you've used before, but you can't get logged on. Instead, your phone tells you an authentication error has occurred.
The majority of us (about 97 percent) own cell phones. But many of us feel baffled when the devices in our pockets won't do what we expect. If you're dealing with an authentication error, know this: You can solve the problem. But before you do, ask yourself if the connection is secure and worth fighting for.
What is a WiFi authentication error?
Sometimes your phone will not connect to the internet with a WiFi account you've used before. This is an authentication error, and unfortunately, these problems are relatively common.
Close to 70 percent of us use our own devices while we're at work, and we might tap into the company WiFi to get the job done. But at the same time, about 30 percent of us say that we can't get our work done because the cell connection isn't stable, strong, or both.
A WiFi authentication error could be to blame. This problem is often caused by:
- Airplane mode. You've traveled recently, and you've ensured your phone won't connect while you're in flight. Many devices allow you to turn WiFi back on even while in airplane mode, but the standard airplane mode settings will turn it off.
- Poor connectivity. Your WiFi router is far away or overloaded, so you can't push your way in.
- Software updates. You've made changes to keep your device secure, but they are interfering with your WiFi connection.
This is just a sample list of what might cause a WiFi authentication error. There are many more.
How can you fix a WiFi authentication problem?
Your phone includes several handy options that can help you get online with ease. But use them carefully.
Should you always try to reconnect?
If you're struggling to connect with a public WiFi account (such as one you might use at a local coffee shop or in the airport), take stock. Hackers can take over these accounts and steal your data. Many experts recommend you do not connect to public WiFi at all. Before you fight to reconnect, ask yourself if it's worthwhile. Can you use a VPN instead? Or can you wait until you're close to a trusted WiFi signal?
Six steps to resolve a WiFi authentication error
If you trust the WiFi account and you want to get connected, try these six steps:
- Forget the network. Head to WiFi settings on your device, find the network you're trying to connect to, and tap "forget."
- Check your password. Head to WiFi settings on your device, find the network you're trying to connect to, and tap "forget." Find it again, and retype your password.
- Refresh your device. Tap the notification bar on your phone, and look for "Airplane Mode." Turn it on for a few minutes, and turn it back off.
- Change your network from Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to Static. Head to WiFi settings on your device, find the network you're trying to connect to, and tap "Manage network settings." Change the Internet Protocol (IP) settings you see there from DHCP to Static.
- Restart your router. Unplug the device from power, or restart using the power button.
- Head back to factory settings. On an Android device, head to "Settings" and "Backup and Reset." Turn on "Automatic Restore," and then tap "Reset Phone." On iOS, Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone. Then tap Erase All Content and Settings.
Every device is different, and your phone may have slightly different menu options and button names. But this short list can help you understand what typically works for people dealing with WiFi authentication errors.
One way to stay safe and secure while browsing via mobile is to use a VPN. If you're not sure what a VPN is or how it works, see the overview on our blog.
Frequently asked questions
What does a WiFi authentication error actually mean?
A WiFi authentication error means your device attempted to connect to a known wireless network but failed to verify its credentials successfully. This prevents the device from gaining access to the internet through that network.
Why does my phone suddenly show an authentication error on a network I've used before?
Several things can trigger this unexpectedly, including airplane mode being left on, a router that is overloaded or out of range, or a recent software update on your device that has disrupted the saved network settings.
Is it safe to troubleshoot and reconnect to public WiFi?
Security experts generally advise against connecting to public WiFi networks at all, as hackers can compromise these networks to steal personal data. Before attempting to fix an authentication error on a public network, consider whether using a VPN or waiting for a trusted connection is a safer alternative.
What does changing the network setting from DHCP to Static do?
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) automatically assigns an Internet Protocol (IP) address to your device, but this process can sometimes fail or conflict. Switching to a Static IP setting manually assigns a fixed address, which can resolve connectivity issues caused by address assignment failures.
Will resetting my phone to factory settings fix a WiFi authentication error?
A factory reset is the most drastic troubleshooting step and should only be used as a last resort after the other five steps have failed. It wipes the device back to its original state, which can resolve deep software conflicts — but it also erases personal data, so backing up your device first is essential.
How can a VPN help with WiFi authentication and security?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic, making it a safer option when connecting via mobile networks or untrusted WiFi. It does not directly fix an authentication error, but it is a recommended tool for staying secure while browsing on mobile devices.
References
Mobile Fact Sheet. (April 2021). Pew Research Center.
41 Stunning BYOD Stats and Facts to Know in 2020. (March 2021). Tech Injury.
51 Percent of Americans Handle Work Calls, and More, in the Bathroom. (September 2019). Small Business Trends.
Why You Should Never, Ever Connect to Public WiFi. (January 2018). CSO.
