If you’re trying to connect to WiFi on your Android phone but keep getting an “Authentication Error,” you’re not alone. This issue happens on Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Realme, Motorola, OnePlus, and other Android devices. The good news? You can fix it at home, without needing a technician.
This complete guide explains why WiFi authentication errors happen and walks you through all proven solutions—from simple resets to advanced router settings. Follow each step carefully until your phone connects successfully.
Why You Get a WiFi Authentication Error
An authentication error usually means your phone and router are having trouble verifying the connection. The most common causes include:
- Incorrect WiFi password or saved password mismatch
- Corrupted network settings on your phone
- Router limits exceeded (too many devices connected)
- IP address conflicts on your network
- Router encryption mismatch (WPA2 vs WPA3)
- Weak WiFi signal causing connection drops
- Incorrect WiFi frequency band (2.4GHz vs 5GHz)
- VPN, MAC filtering, or firewall restrictions
Fix 1: Double-Check the Password
Even if you believe the password is correct, re-enter it carefully. Common mistakes include:
- Confusing O with 0
- Mixing l with 1
- Extra spaces copied at the end
Tip: Ask the network owner for the exact password. If the password changed recently, your saved network may be outdated.
Fix 2: Forget the Network and Reconnect
This is the most effective fix, especially if your phone saved a corrupted configuration.
- Open Settings → WiFi
- Tap your network name
- Select Forget
- Reconnect and enter the password again
If the network connects now, the issue was in your saved WiFi data.
Fix 3: Restart Your Phone and Router
Your router may have cached errors or too many connected devices.
Restart both:
- Turn off your phone
- Unplug the router for 30 seconds
- Plug it back in and wait for it to fully boot
- Turn your phone on and reconnect
This simple step fixes authentication issues for many users.
Fix 4: Toggle Airplane Mode
Airplane Mode resets wireless modules instantly.
- Swipe down Quick Settings
- Turn Airplane Mode ON
- Wait 10 seconds
- Turn Airplane Mode OFF
Now try connecting again.
Fix 5: Switch Between 2.4GHz and 5GHz
Your phone may not support the router’s current frequency band.
Try this:
- If you’re using 5GHz, switch to 2.4GHz
- If you’re on 2.4GHz, switch to 5GHz
2.4GHz works better at long distances and through walls.
Fix 6: Disable MAC Address Filtering
If MAC filtering is enabled on your router, it may block your device from connecting.
Steps:
- Log in to router admin page (usually 192.168.1.1)
- Go to Security or Advanced
- Turn off MAC Filtering
If you want to keep MAC filtering on, add your phone’s MAC address to the allowed list:
- Go to Settings → About Phone → Status
- Find your WiFi MAC Address
Fix 7: Change Encryption Type (WPA2 / WPA3)
Some Android phones have trouble connecting to WPA3-secured networks.
- Open router admin panel
- Go to Wireless Settings
- Change encryption from WPA3 to WPA2
Save changes and try connecting again.
Fix 8: Reduce the Number of Connected Devices
Some routers limit simultaneous connections (10–20 devices).
Try:
- Disconnect unused devices
- Restart router
- Connect your phone again
Fix 9: Assign a Static IP Address
If your router fails to assign an IP automatically, you may get authentication errors.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → WiFi
- Tap your network → Advanced
- Change IP settings to Static
Enter:
- IP: 192.168.1.45
- Gateway: 192.168.1.1
- DNS1: 8.8.8.8
- DNS2: 8.8.4.4
Fix 10: Reset Network Settings
This is one of the strongest solutions.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Tap System
- Choose Reset Options
- Select Reset WiFi, Mobile & Bluetooth
Your phone will restart — reconnect afterward.
Fix 11: Disable VPN
Some VPN apps cause authentication errors by routing your WiFi traffic incorrectly.
- Turn off or uninstall your VPN temporarily
Fix 12: Move Closer to the Router
A weak signal may block authentication.
Try standing next to your router and reconnecting.
Fix 13: Update the Router Firmware
Old router firmware can cause authentication failures.
- Open router admin panel
- Check for firmware updates
- Install if available
Fix 14: Update Your Android Phone
Software updates often fix WiFi bugs.
- Go to Settings → Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
Fix 15: Factory Reset Your Phone (Last Resort)
Reset only if nothing else works.
WARNING: This deletes all data.
Steps:
- Open Settings → System → Reset Options
- Choose Erase All Data
Conclusion
WiFi authentication errors usually come from incorrect settings, router issues, or IP conflicts — all of which can be fixed. Work through the solutions above in order, and your phone should connect successfully.