To fix your iPhone disconnecting from WiFi when locked, forget the network, restart your iPhone and rejoin it. After that, you can optimize the settings on your iPhone and update your router firmware. Beyond that, contact Apple Support and your ISP.
Hi, I’m Devansh. I experienced frequent WiFi drops on my iPhone 13 when I joined a co-working space. This article will show quick fixes to ensure your iPhone stays connected to WiFi. I’ll also give you troubleshooting steps for your iPhone and WiFi network.
If your iPhone disconnects from WiFi whenever you lock it or leave it idle for a few minutes, keep reading to learn about solutions!
Contents
5 Steps to Fix iPhone Disconnecting from WiFi When Locked Issue
Before discussing in-depth fixes, let’s go through some quick first steps.
- Forget the network: Open Settings, tap WiFi, tap the More Info button next to the WiFi network, and tap Forget This Network.
- Restart iPhone: Press and hold the side button and drag the power-off slider. After a minute, press and hold the side button until the screen turns on again. You can also force restart it.
- Rejoin the network: Go to WiFi in Settings again and rejoin the network. In addition, tap the More Info button to enable Auto Join and disable Low Data Mode.
Now, lock your iPhone and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check if it’s still connected to your WiFi network. If it isn’t, keep reading for more in-depth troubleshooting steps.
iPhone Troubleshooting Steps
Most of the time, your iPhone disconnects from your WiFi when locked due to the wrong settings. So, here are three settings you should change. Open Settings and follow along.
- Disable Low Power Mode: Go to Battery and toggle off Low Power Mode.
- Disable WiFi Assist: Open Mobile Data and toggle off WiFi Assist.
- Reset Network Settings: Go to General, Transfer or Reset iPhone, Reset, and tap Reset Network Settings. Enter your iPhone passcode and confirm it. This’ll delete all data related to saved WiFi networks and reset cellular, APN, and VPN configurations.
These settings will clear up any software-related issues. If your iPhone is still disconnecting from WiFi when you lock it, it’s most likely a network- or hardware-related issue.
Network Troubleshooting Steps
As mentioned, I experienced frequent WiFi drops on my iPhone 13 when I joined a co-working space. Once I notified them, they fixed the issue. Follow these steps to troubleshoot your network.
- Install the latest firmware in your router. You can check your router manual for details. Also, check this Support page to learn about optimal settings for WiFi routers.
- Restart your WiFi network.
- Call your ISP and ask them if there is a network outage in your area.
If your iPhone is still disconnecting from WiFi when locked while other devices on the same network are functioning correctly, it may be a hardware-related problem. For further assistance, it would be best to contact Apple Support or a local technician.
FAQs
Here are four questions about the iPhone disconnecting from WiFi when locked issue.
What’s the Optimal DHCP Lease Time for Your Network?
Around 24 to 48 hours. If the lease time is too short, it will remove your iPhone’s assigned IP address when locked. As a result, your iPhone will disconnect from it when you leave it idle for a few minutes.
Should You Switch Your Router to 5GHz Network Band?
If it’s a multiband router, yes. In general, 5GHz is faster than 2.4GHz. It’s also an intelligent way to minimize interference. You can check your router manual or website for instructions.
How to Check if iOS Detects an Issue with the WiFi Network?
Open Settings and tap WiFi. If your iPhone detects an issue with your WiFi network, you’ll see it under its name. For example, it might display an alert like “Weak Security” or “No Internet Connection.” Tap the WiFi network name for more details about the alert.
Should You Disable VPN to Avoid WiFi Drops?
Yes, try it once. Although I haven’t tried it myself, many users have reported that disabling the VPN on their iPhones helped stabilize their WiFi connection. Open Settings and go to VPN to disconnect from it.
Conclusion
To fix your iPhone disconnecting from WiFi when locked, follow these steps: forget the network, restart your iPhone, and rejoin it. After that, you can follow the troubleshooting steps for your iPhone and network. For further guidance, contact Apple Support and your ISP.
Do you have further questions about network-related issues on your iPhone? Let me know in the comments!
