Few Wi-Fi problems are more confusing than this: your internet works perfectly on one device, but refuses to connect—or performs poorly—on another. Your laptop might browse smoothly while your phone shows “Connected, no internet,” or your smart TV may struggle even though everything else works fine. This issue is surprisingly common and can affect homes, offices, schools, and public networks.
The good news is that this problem usually has clear causes and practical solutions. In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn how to fix Wi-Fi that works on some devices but not others by identifying device-specific issues, router settings, compatibility problems, and network conflicts. Whether you’re using Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, or smart devices, this article will help you restore consistent connectivity across all devices.
Why Wi-Fi Works on Some Devices but Not Others
Before applying fixes, it’s important to understand why this problem happens. Common reasons include:
- Device-specific Wi-Fi settings or software issues
- Incompatible Wi-Fi standards or frequency bands
- Incorrect router security or filtering settings
- IP address conflicts
- Outdated drivers or operating systems
- MAC address filtering or device limits on the router
Identifying which category your problem falls into will save time and prevent unnecessary troubleshooting.
Step 1: Confirm the Problem Is Device-Specific
Start by verifying that the issue truly affects only certain devices.
- Check if other phones, laptops, or tablets connect successfully
- Test the problematic device on a different Wi-Fi network
- Connect a working device to the same Wi-Fi network
If the device works on another network, the issue is likely with your router or its configuration. If it fails on all networks, the problem is probably with the device itself.
Step 2: Restart the Affected Device and Router
A simple restart can resolve many Wi-Fi inconsistencies.
Restart the Device
- Power off the device completely
- Wait 10–20 seconds
- Turn it back on and reconnect to Wi-Fi
Restart the Router and Modem
- Unplug both devices
- Wait at least 30 seconds
- Plug them back in and allow them to fully reboot
This clears temporary network conflicts and refreshes device connections.
Step 3: Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network
Saved Wi-Fi profiles can become corrupted, affecting only certain devices.
Why This Helps
- Clears incorrect passwords
- Removes outdated security settings
- Resets network authentication
What to Do
- Forget the Wi-Fi network on the affected device
- Reconnect manually and re-enter the password
This fix is especially effective when one device suddenly stops connecting while others continue working.
Step 4: Check Wi-Fi Frequency Band Compatibility
Modern routers often broadcast both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, and not all devices support both.
Common Band Issues
- Older devices may not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi
- Some smart devices only work on 2.4 GHz
- Devices may connect to a weak band automatically
How to Fix It
- Log in to your router settings
- Separate SSIDs for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (if possible)
- Manually connect affected devices to the compatible band
This is one of the most common reasons Wi-Fi works on some devices but not others.
Step 5: Check Router Security Settings
Incorrect or incompatible security settings can block certain devices.
Recommended Security Options
- Use WPA2-Personal or WPA3 if supported
- Avoid outdated security types like WEP
- Use a standard encryption method (AES preferred)
Some older devices may not support newer security protocols, while newer devices may reject outdated ones. Adjusting router security settings often resolves selective connectivity issues.
Step 6: Disable MAC Address Filtering
MAC address filtering allows only approved devices to connect to the network.
Why This Matters
- New or reset devices may not be on the approved list
- Some routers enable MAC filtering accidentally
What to Check
- Log into your router’s admin panel
- Look for MAC filtering or access control
- Disable it temporarily or add the affected device
Once disabled or updated, blocked devices should connect normally.
Step 7: Check Device Limits on the Router
Some routers have limits on how many devices can connect at once.
Symptoms
- Older devices stay connected
- New devices fail to connect
- Wi-Fi works again after disconnecting another device
Solution
- Increase the DHCP client limit
- Disconnect unused devices
- Restart the router to refresh IP assignments
Low-end or older routers are especially prone to this issue.
Step 8: Renew IP Address and Fix IP Conflicts
IP address conflicts can prevent certain devices from accessing the internet.
Signs of IP Conflicts
- Device connects but shows “No internet access”
- Network works intermittently
- Only one device affected at a time
How to Fix
- Restart the router
- Renew IP address on the affected device
- Use automatic IP settings instead of static ones
This ensures each device receives a unique IP address.
Step 9: Update Device Software and Wi-Fi Drivers
Outdated software is a leading cause of Wi-Fi problems.
Update the Affected Device
- Install the latest operating system updates
- Update Wi-Fi drivers (Windows and Mac)
- Update firmware for smart TVs and IoT devices
Updates often include fixes for Wi-Fi compatibility and stability issues.
Step 10: Disable VPNs, Firewalls, and Security Apps
Security software can block internet access on specific devices.
What to Test
- Turn off VPNs temporarily
- Disable third-party firewalls or network protection apps
- Reconnect to Wi-Fi
If Wi-Fi works after disabling them, adjust app settings instead of removing protection completely.
Step 11: Reset Network Settings on the Affected Device
If the problem persists, resetting network settings can help.
What This Does
- Clears saved Wi-Fi networks
- Resets Bluetooth and mobile data settings
- Fixes hidden configuration errors
This step does not delete personal data but requires reconnecting to Wi-Fi networks afterward.
Step 12: Check Router Firmware and Settings
Outdated router firmware can cause compatibility issues with newer devices.
Recommended Actions
- Update router firmware if available
- Reset router settings if misconfigured
- Avoid experimental or advanced features unless needed
Router updates often improve device compatibility and overall performance.
Step 13: Test with a Guest Network
Creating a guest Wi-Fi network can help diagnose router-related issues.
Why This Works
- Guest networks use simpler settings
- Bypasses device restrictions and filters
If the affected device connects to the guest network but not the main one, the issue lies in advanced router settings.
Step 14: Factory Reset as a Last Resort
If nothing works, a factory reset may be necessary.
Reset Options
- Reset the affected device’s network settings
- Factory reset the router (backup settings first)
This removes deep configuration errors that can’t be fixed manually.
How to Prevent This Wi-Fi Problem in the Future
To avoid Wi-Fi working on some devices but not others, follow these best practices:
- Keep router firmware and device software updated
- Use compatible Wi-Fi security standards
- Avoid overcrowding the network
- Restart your router periodically
- Replace outdated routers when needed
Proactive network management ensures consistent performance for all devices.
Final Thoughts
Wi-Fi that works on some devices but not others can be frustrating, but it’s rarely mysterious. In most cases, the issue is caused by compatibility problems, router settings, outdated software, or device-specific configurations. By following a structured troubleshooting approach, you can identify the exact cause and apply the right fix.
A reliable Wi-Fi network should serve all your devices equally. With the solutions in this guide, you can restore stable connectivity, reduce interruptions, and enjoy seamless internet access across your entire digital ecosystem.
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