Symptoms
- Wi-Fi list shows completely empty
- Wi-Fi toggle appears greyed out
- Other wireless features like Bluetooth also seem affected
- Problem started after a software update or drop
Likely causes
- CommonAirplane Mode is turned onThis disables all wireless radios including Wi-Fi until turned off.
- CommonWi-Fi toggle stuck off or software glitchA temporary software issue can prevent the Wi-Fi radio from scanning properly.
- PossibleAirplane Mode restriction via a management profileWork or school-managed phones can have Wi-Fi restricted by policy.
- PossiblePhysical damage to the Wi-Fi antennaA drop or impact can damage the small antenna wire connected to the Wi-Fi chip.
- Less commonWi-Fi chip hardware failureThis would prevent detecting any network at all, consistently.
What to do
- Check that Airplane Mode is off in Control Center or Quick Settings.
- Toggle Wi-Fi off and back on directly in the Wi-Fi settings menu.
- Restart the phone completely.
- Check Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings (iPhone) or the equivalent Android reset option.
- If the phone is managed by a work or school profile, check with the administrator about Wi-Fi restrictions.
- Check if the issue started after a specific drop or impact, which could point to antenna damage.
- Update the phone's software if an update is available.
- If no networks appear at all after a network reset and restart, have the Wi-Fi antenna and chip tested professionally.
Tools and parts
Replacement Wi-Fi antenna flex cableSearch: “phone wifi antenna flex cable replacement”
When to call a pro
If no Wi-Fi networks appear at all after a full reset and restart, a repair shop can test the antenna and Wi-Fi chip for damage.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.