Wi-Fi Works on One Device but Not Others? What to Do

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Wi-Fi Works on One Device but Not Others? What to Do

If Wi-Fi works on one device but not others, the issue is usually device-specific, not a problem with your internet connection or router.

Follow the steps below in order to identify what’s causing the issue and fix what you can safely.

Common Symptoms

  • One device connects and works normally

  • Another device won’t connect to Wi-Fi

  • Some devices show “No Internet”

  • Wi-Fi drops only on certain devices

  • Restarting the router doesn’t fix all devices

This usually means the network is working, but specific devices are having trouble.

Why This Happens

This issue is commonly caused by:

  • Outdated device software

  • Incorrect saved Wi-Fi settings

  • Device compatibility issues

  • Power-saving features limiting Wi-Fi

  • VPNs or security apps interfering

The steps below help narrow this down one device at a time.

Step-by-Step Fixes

Step 1: Restart the Affected Device

Start with the device that isn’t working.

  • Power it off completely

  • Wait 30 seconds

  • Turn it back on

  • Reconnect to Wi-Fi and test

This clears temporary connection problems.

Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network

Saved network settings can become outdated.

  • Open Wi-Fi settings on the affected device

  • Forget or remove the Wi-Fi network

  • Reconnect and enter the password again

  • Test the connection

This refreshes how the device connects to the network.

Step 3: Check Device Software Updates

Outdated software can cause connection issues.

  • Check for system updates

  • Install any available updates

  • Restart the device after updating

Updates often fix hidden Wi-Fi bugs.

Step 4: Check Device Compatibility

Some older devices may struggle with newer Wi-Fi settings.

  • If possible, connect the device to a different Wi-Fi band

  • Move closer to the router and test

  • Compare with a newer device

If newer devices work fine, compatibility may be the issue.

Step 5: Disable VPNs or Security Apps Temporarily

VPNs and security apps can block connections.

  • Turn off any VPN apps

  • Pause security or firewall apps

  • Test Wi-Fi again

If the device connects after disabling one of these, that app may be interfering.

Step 6: Reset Network Settings (Last Resort)

If nothing else works, resetting network settings may help.

You don’t need to understand the technical details—this simply clears saved Wi-Fi and network information.

  • Saved Wi-Fi networks will be removed

  • Bluetooth connections may reset

  • Reconnect afterward

Only use this step if earlier fixes fail.

When This Doesn’t Work

The issue may be beyond basic troubleshooting if:

  • The device won’t connect to any Wi-Fi network

  • Other devices work everywhere

  • The problem started after physical damage

  • The device is very old or unsupported

At this point, further changes may not help.

Next Best Action

If the device still won’t connect:

  • Test it on another Wi-Fi network

  • Contact the device manufacturer’s support

  • Visit a repair or service center

  • Consider replacing outdated hardware

Knowing when to stop saves time and frustration.

If you’re unsure whether the issue is caused by the device or the network itself, this guide explains how to tell the difference between ISP and router problems.

If connection problems happen only in certain rooms, this guide explains how to place your router for better Wi-Fi coverage.

Final Tip

If Wi-Fi works on some devices but not others, your internet connection is usually fine. Focus on the specific device’s settings, software, and compatibility instead of changing router or ISP settings unnecessarily.

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