5 Fixes for “Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network” Error on iPhone

Pankil is a Civil Engineer turned freelance writer. Since his arrival at Guiding Tech in 2021, he delves into the world of how-tos, and troubleshooting guides for Android, iOS, and Windows. Besides his new-found love for mechanical keyboards, he’s a disciplined footfall fan and loves international travel with his wife.

Try Basic Fixes

Fix 1: Enable Mobile Data and Data Roaming

Next, ensure that Mobile Data is enabled on your iPhone. If your iPhone shows the “Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network” error despite Mobile Data being enabled, you can try turning it off and back on.

Step 1:Open theSettingsapp, go toMobile Service, and enable the toggle next toMobile Data.

Step 2:Tap onMobile Data Optionsand enableData Roamingfrom the subsequent menu.

Note:Enabling Data Roaming may incur extra fees, depending on your carrier and cell plan.

Fix 2: Remove and Reinsert the SIM Card

If the problem persists, try removing the physical SIM from your iPhone and then reinserting it. Turn off your iPhone and use the SIM-ejector tool to pull out the SIM tray. Once removed, clean your SIM with a microfiber cloth, and then insert it back. Then, power on your iPhone and try using cellular services again.

If you are using an eSIM, you can try disabling and re-enabling it on your iPhone. To do so, openSettingsand tap onMobile Service. Select your eSIM and turn off the toggle next toTurn On This Line. Wait for a few moments, and then turn it back on.

Fix 3: Update Network Carrier Settings

Network carriers regularly release updates to improve network connectivity and fix issues. You can try installing these updates to see if that fixes the “Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network” error on your iPhone.

Open theSettingsapp and head toGeneral > About. If there are any pending updates, you should see a pop-up. Tap onUpdateto proceed.

Fix 4: Reset APN Settings

Incorrect APN settings on your iPhone can also give rise to the “Could Not Activate Cellular Data Network” error on your iPhone. If that’s the case, resetting APN settings on your iPhone should solve your problem.

Step 1:Open theSettingsapp and head toMobile Service > Cellular Data Network.

Step 2:TapReset Settingsand hitResetto confirm.

Fix 5: Reset Network Settings

If all else fails,resetting your iPhone’s network settingsmay be your last option. Keep in mind that this will remove all your saved Wi-Fi networks, paired Bluetooth devices, and reset network preferences.

Step 1:Open theSettingsapp, navigate toGeneral, and tap onTransfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 2:Tap on theResetoption at the bottom and chooseReset Network Settingsfrom the menu that pops up.

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Last updated on 28 August, 2024

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