Have you ever connected to a working network but you are unable to surf the internet? You may have seen an exclamation mark next to the WiFi icon. When you check the network by connecting to other devices, the internet works perfectly. So the problem is your device. What is WiFi Exclamation Mark error and can you fix it? Fortunately, you can. We will talk about it in a moment. Before you go ahead and blame your device, it is worth investigating whether your network is working properly or not. A router restart can fix this issue of it is the router’s fault. If it doesn’t, and if the internet is not working on other devices either, then the network has an issue. Contact your ISP ASAP. Now let’s get back to how you can solve this issue. Here’s how to fix WiFi exclamation mark issue.
Fix WiFi Exclamation Mark Issue
1. Restart Your Device and Router
- Step 1: Turn off your device and unplug your router.
- Step 2: Wait for about 30 seconds.
- Step 3: Plug the router back in and turn on your device.
- This simple step can often fix minor connectivity issues.
2. Forget and Reconnect to the Network
- Step 1: Go to your device’s WiFi settings.
- Step 2: Tap on the WiFi network and select “Forget.”
- Step 3: Reconnect by entering your password again.
- This refreshes your connection, clearing potential authentication errors.
3. Reset Network Settings (For Android & iOS)
- Android:
- Go to Settings > System > General Management > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
- iOS:
- Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- Note: This will remove all saved WiFi networks, so make sure you remember your passwords.
4. Check Date & Time Settings
- Ensure your device’s date and time are accurate.
- Incorrect settings can cause connectivity issues, especially with secured networks.
5. Update Device Software & Drivers
- For Android/iOS: Check for software updates.
- Keeping your software and drivers up-to-date can resolve compatibility issues.
6. Disable VPN or Proxy
- If you are using a VPN or proxy, try disabling it temporarily.
- Sometimes, VPNs can interfere with internet access.
7. Change DNS Settings
This issue can be fixed easily by assigning a static IP. This is not the best way to solve this issue and you may enter an IP address that is in use, but that is a rare case. You should first know if an IP address is available. You need to manually enter DNS1 and DNS 2 also. These are entered by default on most of the device but in case you don’t see them, you can enter Google’s DNS 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.
Follow the steps below to Fix WiFi Exclamation Mark Issue.
- On your Android device, go to the system’s Settings.
- Tap on WiFi and thereafter long press the name of the network you are trying to connect to.
- When a popup appears, tap on Modify Network.
Find Advanced Options and tap on it. - Select the IP Settings.
- Select Static.
- Enter all the necessary information and tap on Save. IP addresses use 192.168.1.x format. In the place of x, use any number that is not taken by any other devices on the network. Restart your device and the WiFi should run just fine.
8. Reset Your Router
- If nothing works, try resetting your router to factory settings.
- Before resetting please go through your manual for specific instructions.
Final Thoughts
A user can easily solve the WiFi exclamation mark problem using the instructions mentioned earlier. Run all methods one by one until you detect the issue which will enable you to reconnect to the internet.
You Can Also Read:
How to Fix Failed to Obtaining IP Address Error in Android
How to Fix Mobile Network Issues and Weak Signal?
How to Fix Network Driver Issues in Windows
How to Resolve Mobile Hotspot Connectivity Issues on Android and IOS
