When Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting, the cause may be the phone or computer, weak coverage, power-saving settings, the router, interference or the internet provider. The fastest solution is to isolate the failing part before resetting everything. Follow these checks in order and test the connection for a few minutes after each change.
Start with this two-minute diagnosis
Check whether every device loses Wi-Fi at the same time. If the phone, television and computer all disconnect together, the router, line or local interference is the likely cause. If only one device is affected, focus on that device first.
Now test the device within two metres of the router. A stable connection nearby but an unstable one in another room usually indicates a coverage problem. If the Wi-Fi symbol remains visible while websites stop loading, use our guide to Wi-Fi connected with no Internet. If the link stays online but feels slow, read why Wi-Fi may be slow.
12 fixes for Wi-Fi that keeps disconnecting
1. Turn Wi-Fi off and back on
Disable Wi-Fi in the device settings, wait ten seconds and enable it again. This forces a fresh association with the access point without deleting saved passwords.
2. Restart the affected device
A stuck network process can cause repeated drops. Perform a full restart rather than putting the device to sleep, then test before changing anything else.
3. Forget the network and reconnect
Open Wi-Fi settings, select the network, choose Forget and enter the password again. This replaces a possibly damaged connection profile. Confirm that you know the password first.
4. Restart the modem and router properly
Unplug the power for about thirty seconds, reconnect it and wait until the status lights settle. Everyone will briefly lose access. Do not press the factory-reset button because it may erase settings supplied by the ISP.
5. Move closer and reposition the router
Thick walls, metal furniture, mirrors and appliances weaken radio signals. Put the router in an open, elevated and reasonably central position. Avoid hiding it inside a cabinet.
6. Compare 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
5 GHz often provides higher speed but has less range through obstacles. 2.4 GHz travels farther but may face more interference. If your router shows two network names, test both in the room where disconnections occur.
7. Temporarily disable VPN and filtering software
A VPN, custom DNS filter or security application can interrupt traffic while the Wi-Fi radio remains connected. Disable it only for diagnosis. If stability returns, update the software or contact its provider before enabling it again.
8. Check power-saving settings
Phones and computers may restrict networking during sleep or on a low battery. Test with battery saver disabled. On Windows, also review the wireless adapter power settings if the drop happens after a period of inactivity.
9. Install system and router updates
Update the device operating system and, where supported, the router firmware. Use only the manufacturer’s official app or website. Never install a supposed driver from an advertisement or unknown download site.
10. Pause heavy traffic and reduce interference
A large download, cloud backup or several video streams can resemble a disconnection. Pause them during testing. Keep the router away from cordless-phone bases, microwave ovens and Bluetooth equipment placed directly beside it.
11. Reset network settings only as a last resort
This normally removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords as well as cellular, VPN and APN settings. Record anything important first. Ask IT before doing this on a work or school device.
12. Check the service and contact the ISP
If every device disconnects, inspect the modem lights and the service-status page in the provider’s official app. Record exact drop times. This gives support useful evidence for distinguishing a line fault from a failing router.
If the Wi-Fi disconnects every day
For two or three days, record the time, room, affected device and duration. A drop at a fixed time may match a scheduled task or connection renewal. A problem in one room suggests coverage. A problem on one device points towards its saved profile, driver or software.
Official troubleshooting from Android, Apple and Microsoft supports separating device, network and router checks instead of changing every setting at once.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Wi-Fi disconnect when the screen turns off?
Battery-saving or background-activity restrictions may suspend networking. Test without battery saver and install updates before resetting the network.
Should I factory-reset the router?
Not initially. Start with a normal power restart. A factory reset can remove ISP credentials and custom settings.
Is the router or phone responsible?
If several devices disconnect together, investigate the router or line first. If only one device is affected, forget the network and check that device’s settings.
Read next: Why can mobile data be enabled while Internet still does not work?