How to Reset Network Settings on iPhone and Android: A Complete 2026 Guide
James Brolin
March 21, 2026 23:45
eSIM Guide
#how-to-reset-network-settings-iphone-android
Your phone won't connect to Wi-Fi. Your eSIM isn't working abroad. Bluetooth keeps dropping. Before you panic or spend hours troubleshooting, there's one simple fix that solves most connectivity issues: resetting your network settings.
This guide walks you through exactly how to reset network settings on both iPhone and Android devices, what happens when you do it, and why it's often the fastest solution for travelers dealing with connectivity problems.
What Happens When You Reset Network Settings #
Resetting network settings clears all your device's network configurations and returns them to factory defaults. Here's exactly what gets wiped:
Wi-Fi Settings
- All saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords
- Wi-Fi preferences and custom configurations
- Hotspot settings
Bluetooth Connections
- All paired Bluetooth devices
- Bluetooth preferences and custom settings
Cellular and Mobile Data
- APN (Access Point Name) settings
- Carrier settings and preferences
- Mobile data configurations
VPN and Network Configurations
- All VPN profiles and settings
- Network certificates
- Custom DNS settings
- Proxy configurations
What Stays Safe
Your photos, apps, contacts, and most importantly for travelers — your eSIM profiles remain completely intact. The actual eSIM isn't deleted, just the network settings that control how it connects.
When You Should Reset Network Settings #
Network settings can become corrupted or misconfigured, leading to frustrating connectivity issues. Consider a reset when you experience:
After Software Updates
iOS and Android updates sometimes conflict with existing network configurations, causing Wi-Fi or cellular issues that weren't there before.
eSIM Connection Problems Abroad
Your travel eSIM won't activate, connect to local networks, or provide data despite showing signal bars.
Wi-Fi Issues
- Can't connect to known networks
- Extremely slow Wi-Fi speeds
- Frequent disconnections
- "Incorrect password" errors for networks you've used before
Cellular Data Problems
- No data connection despite strong signal
- Slow mobile internet speeds
- Unable to send MMS messages
- Calls work but data doesn't
Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
- Devices won't pair or stay connected
- Audio cutting out with wireless headphones
- Car connectivity problems
How to Reset Network Settings on iPhone (iOS 17, 18, and 2026) #
Apple has streamlined the process in recent iOS versions. Here's the exact path:
Step 1: Open Settings
Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
Step 2: Navigate to General
Scroll down and tap "General."
Step 3: Find Transfer or Reset iPhone
Scroll to the bottom and tap "Transfer or Reset iPhone."
Step 4: Select Reset
Tap "Reset" at the bottom of the screen.
Step 5: Choose Reset Network Settings
Tap "Reset Network Settings" from the list of options.
Step 6: Enter Your Passcode
Enter your device passcode when prompted.
Step 7: Confirm the Reset
Tap "Reset Network Settings" again to confirm. Your iPhone will restart automatically.
The entire process takes about 2-3 minutes, including the restart.
How to Reset Network Settings on Android #
Android's process varies slightly between manufacturers, but here are the most common paths:
Samsung Galaxy Devices (One UI 6.0 and 2026) #
Step 1: Open Settings
Swipe down from the top and tap the gear icon, or find Settings in your app drawer.
Step 2: Go to General Management
Scroll down and tap "General management."
Step 3: Select Reset
Tap "Reset" at the bottom of the menu.
Step 4: Choose Reset Network Settings
Tap "Reset network settings."
Step 5: Confirm and Reset
Tap "Reset settings," then "Reset" to confirm. Enter your PIN or password if prompted.
Google Pixel and Stock Android #
Step 1: Open Settings
Access Settings from your app drawer or notification panel.
Step 2: Navigate to System
Scroll down and tap "System."
Step 3: Select Reset Options
Tap "Reset options."
Step 4: Choose Reset Network Settings
Tap "Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth."
Step 5: Confirm Reset
Tap "Reset settings," then confirm by tapping "Reset" again.
Your eSIM Is Safe: What Travelers Need to Know #
The biggest concern for travelers is losing their eSIM when resetting network settings. Here's the good news: eSIM profiles are NOT deleted during a network settings reset.
Your eSIM contains two components:
- The eSIM profile itself (stays intact)
- Network configuration settings (gets reset)
This means your Roamify travel eSIM will still be installed on your device, but you might need to reconfigure some settings to get it working optimally again.
What to Do After Resetting Network Settings #
Once your device restarts, you'll need to reconnect to your networks:
Reconnect to Wi-Fi
- Go to Wi-Fi settings
- Select your home network
- Re-enter your Wi-Fi password
- Repeat for any other frequently used networks
Re-pair Bluetooth Devices
- Open Bluetooth settings
- Put your devices (headphones, car, etc.) in pairing mode
- Connect them one by one
Check Your eSIM Connection
- Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Mobile Networks (Android)
- Ensure your eSIM is selected as active
- If you're abroad, your travel eSIM should automatically connect to local networks
Verify APN Settings
Most carriers automatically configure APN settings, but if you're still having data issues, you might need to manually enter them.
Troubleshooting Tips for Travelers Using eSIMs #
If you're abroad and experiencing eSIM connectivity issues even after resetting network settings:
Check Your Data Plan Status
Make sure your eSIM data plan hasn't expired or run out of data.
Toggle Airplane Mode
Turn airplane mode on for 30 seconds, then off. This forces your device to reconnect to local networks.
Manually Select Network
Go to your cellular settings and manually select a local carrier instead of leaving it on automatic.
Restart Your Device
A simple restart after the network reset can resolve lingering connectivity issues.
For travelers who haven't yet secured reliable international connectivity, getting a Roamify eSIM before your trip ensures you'll have affordable data in over 200 countries and regions. Learn more at getroamify.com.
Frequently Asked Questions #
Does resetting network settings delete my eSIM?
No. Your eSIM profile remains installed on your device. Only the network configuration settings are reset.
Will I lose my photos, apps, or personal data?
No. Network settings reset only affects connectivity settings. All your personal data, apps, and files remain untouched.
Does resetting network settings fix cellular data issues?
Yes, it often resolves cellular data problems caused by corrupted APN settings or network configurations.
How often should I reset network settings?
Only when experiencing connectivity issues. It's not regular maintenance — think of it as troubleshooting when problems arise.
Will this fix slow internet speeds?
It can, especially if the slow speeds are caused by corrupted network settings rather than your actual internet connection.
Do I need to backup anything before resetting?
You don't need to backup data, but write down your Wi-Fi passwords since you'll need to re-enter them.
Can I reset network settings while abroad?
Yes, it's safe to do while traveling. Your eSIM will remain active, though you might need to reconnect to local networks.
When Network Reset Isn't Enough #
If resetting network settings doesn't solve your connectivity issues, the problem might be:
- Hardware-related (damaged antenna or components)
- Carrier-specific issues in your area
- Expired or depleted data plans
- Device compatibility issues with local networks
For travelers specifically, having a reliable backup connectivity option is crucial. Roamify's affordable eSIM plans starting at $2 provide peace of mind and ensure you stay connected even when facing unexpected network issues abroad.
Stay Connected Anywhere #
Resetting network settings is a powerful troubleshooting tool that resolves most connectivity issues within minutes. Whether you're dealing with Wi-Fi problems at home or eSIM connection issues while traveling, this simple reset often provides the fastest solution.
For your next international trip, ensure seamless connectivity with Roamify's travel eSIMs. With coverage in over 200 countries and regions, competitive pricing, and instant digital delivery, you can focus on your journey instead of worrying about staying connected. Get your travel eSIM at getroamify.com.
Related eSIM destination plans
Frequently asked questions
- What will I learn in How to Reset Network Settings on iPhone and Android: A Complete 2026 Guide?
- You will learn how eSIM activation works, how to compare data plans, and which setup steps matter most before and during your trip.
- How do I choose the right eSIM plan for Japan?
- Match your plan to trip length, expected daily data use, hotspot needs, and network quality in your destination. Short stays usually need less data, while remote work and video calls need more.
- Where can I buy travel eSIM plans for Japan and Thailand?
- Use the destination links in this guide to go directly to Roamify country pages, compare plan options, and complete checkout before departure.