What Does “Not Registered on Network” Mean?


If you have a Samsung or Android phone, you can often see the error “Not registered on the network.”Usually, this error occurs when you have a SIM card problem.

What Does “Not Registered on Network” Mean?

The “Not registered on Network” error means your Android phone fails to detect the SIM card in its slot. In that case, you will not get incoming or outgoing calls or send text messages.

Hence, fixing this issue is the same for all models and versions.

Why does my phone say there is no network connection?

Your phone shows the error “no network connection”  or “not registered on the network” because:

  • The operating system or firmware is obsolete.
  • The SIM card is damaged.
  • The carrier on your device is not correct. 
  • Your provider is having network issues.

How to fix a network error on your phone?

Follow these steps to register your SIM card on the Network:

  • Network your Android Phone

Restarting devices helps get rid of problems by clearing out any errors.

  • Turn the wi-fi off

Please turn off your wi-fi for a few seconds, then turn it on. Your connection will reset, and the temporary lag will be solved.

  • Be up-to-date

To avoid issues, your operating system should always be up to date. You also need to update the firmware. Finally, if your Android phone is rooted, you need to unroot it.

  • Reinsert your SIM card in its slot.

 You should take your SIM card out and check for defects or damage. If none is found, you can place it back. Before inserting it, ensure the plat is placed appropriately with the metal pins in their respective position. Choose your Network, the Network that your carrier has selected. To do this, go to the settings> Select connections> Select mobile networks> Go to network operators> Search now and choose your carrier’s Network.

  • Network between network modes.

If you are out of network coverage area where 5G or 4G is not supported, you can switch to 3G or 2G.

Reach out to your mobile carrier. Visit the store, call your phone provider, and solve the issue. The problem can persist due to lack of Network, Networkcan wait until the Network cNetworkck or wait for your carrier to replace your SIM card. 

  • Update APN

Updating AP or Access Point Name may help solve the issue if you recently switched your network providers. This fix is advanced, so you need to be mindful while writing a default APN name so you can change it if needed.

  • Reset the network settings.

If a reboot doesn’t resolve your issue, you can fix it by creating a new connection to your carrier’s Network. Networks will clear all your wi-fi passwords and settings, so this step is only a last resort. 

  • Use another SIM card.

If this SIM has recurring issues, you can use a spare SIM card and connect your phone to the Network. Network works further solidify the notion that there was a problem with your previous SIM card. Check out the Samsung support website before buying this new card.

Frequently asked questions

Can I register my phone on a network while roaming?

You might not be able to see a connection between your phone and the Network because your network carrier might not have any underlying agreements in the area. Hence, the service is not provided there. Therefore, to avoid this issue, you can check if your service covers the place where you are going.

How do you describe “not registered on network” on T-Mobile?

If you recently bought a new phone or a T-Mobile, the old carrier might block your device. To solve this, locate the IMEI number. Then, go to settings> About phone or general on Android or iOS, respectively,> Contact T-Mobile to unlock your service.  

Igor Milosevic
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