iPhone Wi-Fi won’t turn on or is greyed out? 7 fixes
When the Wi-Fi switch will not move at all, the iPhone cannot talk to its Wi-Fi chip. Settings fix it sometimes, repair the rest.
The fix
7 fixes, in order
- 1
Turn off Airplane Mode.
- 2
Restart the iPhone.
- 3
Check Screen Time.
Settings › Screen Time › Content & Privacy Restrictions. Allow changes to cellular and other settings.
- 4
Let a hot iPhone cool down.
- 5
Reset network settings.
Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Reset › Reset Network Settings.
- 6
Update iOS with a Mac or PC.
- 7
Back up, erase and set it up again, or book a repair.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Wi-Fi greyed out on my iPhone?
A software glitch, a restriction, or a failed Wi-Fi chip. If a reset and update do not bring the switch back, it is almost always hardware.
Does Bluetooth also not work?
If both are broken, the shared wireless chip is likely damaged. That needs Apple or an authorized repair shop.
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