$3/monthGet help - $3/month
Wi-Fi and internet
Should I use guest Wi-Fi?
For this Wi-Fi question, check one layer at a time: the device, the router, the internet provider, and settings like guest Wi-Fi or VPN.
The short answer
Test another device, turn Wi-Fi off and back on, restart the affected device, and restart the router only if more than one device has the same issue.
Now try it on your device
Choose your path
Pick the device or situation that matches the screen in front of you.
Steps for One device
- 1Turn Wi-Fi off and back on.
- 2Restart the phone, tablet, or computer.
- 3Move closer to the router and try one simple website.
- 4Forget and rejoin the network only if you know the Wi-Fi password.
One safety note
Do not press the router reset button unless you know how to set it up again.
Before you change settings
1Check whether the problem happens on one device or every device.
2Turn Wi-Fi off and back on before changing passwords or router settings.
3Restart the router by unplugging power, not by pressing the reset button.
What to know first
What this usually means
- The device is connected to Wi-Fi but the router is not reaching the internet.
- The device is on a guest network or weak signal.
- A VPN or security app is blocking traffic.
- The router or modem needs a normal restart.
Do not do this yet
- Do not press the router reset button unless you know how to set it up again.
- Do not change the Wi-Fi password during a simple outage check.
- Do not forget the network unless you know the password.
Copy this to Emily
You do not need perfect technical words. Send the plain version and a screenshot if you have one.
I searched for "should I use guest Wi-Fi." I use [device/app/service], and the screen says [exact message]. Can you tell me the safest next step?