One of the issues that seems to be plaguing some iPhone and iPad users especially with iOS 7 or later, is the Wi-Fi toggle in the Settings app is grayed out or dimmed, which prevents them from enabling it, and connecting to Wi-Fi networks. It also results in getting the “Wi-Fi not available” error message when you access Control Center.
It is not clear what causes the issue, but here are some of the options you can try to fix the annoying issue:
Reset your iPhone
One of the first things you should do if you’re having a problem with your iPhone is to reset it. Even with this issue, you can try to reset your iPhone to see if it helps.
You can do this by pressing and holding both the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons for at least 10 seconds. Don’t release the buttons until you see the Apple logo. You can also check the video to see how it is done.
Reset Network Settings
If the hard reset doesn’t work then you should try to reset Network settings. It generally tends to resolve some of the common network related issues. However, please note that it clears your current cellular and Wi-Fi network settings, including saved networks, Wi-Fi passwords, and VPN settings, so you will have to configure them again.
- Launch the Settings app
- Navigate to General > Reset
- Then tap on Reset Network Settings
- It will prompt you for the passcode, if you lock your device with a passcode. Enter your passcode.
- It will get a popup informing you that “this will delete all network settings, returning them to factory defaults,” tap on Reset Network Settings to proceed.
- Wait for your iPhone or iPad to reboot.
Update to the latest iOS Software update
If you haven’t done so already, update your iPhone to the latest iOS software update. We’ve heard that in some cases upgrading to the latest software update has fixed the issue. If you need help, check our step-by-step guide:
Ironically though, some of the users have reported the issue after installing the latest iOS software update.
Restore your iPhone
As the last resort, if the hard reset or upgrading to the latest iOS software update doesn’t work then restore your iPhone with iTunes. If you need help, check our step-by-step guide:
Get a Replacement
If none of the solutions mentioned work, I would strongly recommend taking your device to an Apple Store to fix the issue. If they can’t fix it, then they will give you a replacement as the Wi-Fi chip is probably faulty.
Some users have reported that weird solutions like applying heat using a hair dryer for few minutes on the headphone jack until you get the temperature warning or keeping the device in the freezer for a few minutes, resolved the issue. In case of the hair dryer solution, it is possible that the heat generated causes a reflow, which means that it melts the solder that can degrade over time, allowing it to form a solid block again and joining up the electrical circuit. But I would recommend against trying it out, as you could end up damaging the chips. It would be prudent to visit an Apple Store to get it fixed.
Let me know how it goes. If you have faced this issue, then please share your experience in the comments below.
