Symptoms
- Shows a signal bar but no data connection
- Apps won't load over cellular but work fine on Wi-Fi
- No signal bars at all
Likely causes
- CommonData plan expired, paused, or out of dataPrepaid or limited data plans commonly cause this without an obvious on-device warning.
- CommonCellular data toggle turned offA settings toggle can be off even though the SIM and signal are fine.
- PossibleIncorrect APN (network) settingsWrong or missing carrier settings can block data even with a valid plan.
- PossibleSIM card not seated properly or damagedA loose or worn SIM can show a signal but fail to pass data.
What to do
- Check your carrier account or app to confirm the data plan is active and has remaining data.
- Make sure cellular data is toggled on in settings.
- Toggle airplane mode on and off to force a network reconnect.
- Remove and reseat the SIM card to ensure it's making proper contact.
- Check for carrier settings or APN updates, which sometimes need to be applied manually or via a software update.
- If data still doesn't work with a confirmed active plan and a reseated SIM, contact your carrier or try the SIM in another compatible device to isolate the cause.
Tools and parts
- SIM eject tool
When to call a pro
If the SIM works in another device but not this tablet, a repair shop can test the tablet's cellular antenna and modem hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.