How-To

How to Fix Not Registered on Network Error on Android

By Brian Burgess

Updated February 25, 2024

Network errors on Android can be annoying. We’ll show you how to fix a “Not Registered on Network” error on Android.

The not registered on network error on Android means that your handset can’t connect to your carrier. You can’t send or receive text messages, take phone calls, or use your mobile data connection while the error appears. Your SIM card may be detected, but not registered on the network.

There are several different steps you can take to resolve this error. For example, you can try simple fixes with the phone’s settings, reseating the SIM card, or updating your device. You might need to dig into your carrier settings and reset them.

If you’re having trouble with the not registered on network error on Android, follow the steps below to fix it.

What Does a Not Registered on Network Error Mean?

The not registered on network message appears when your phone can’t connect to your mobile carrier’s cellular network. There are several possible causes, including:

• Your SIM card is faulty, damaged, or inserted incorrectly.
• The phone you’re using is faulty or damaged.
• The mobile signal in your area is too weak to stay connected.
• Your device is running out-of-date software.
• There’s an unexpected fault with your carrier’s network.
• You need to update your carrier’s specific network settings to make a connection.
• The phone you’re using has been barred by the carrier, preventing a connection.

We’ll assume that your device isn’t faulty, hasn’t been banned from use, and you have a good enough cellular signal to make a connection. If this is correct, and you’ve checked that your carrier isn’t having problems, you should be able to resolve a not registered on network problem using the steps below.

Restart Your Phone

One of the most basic fixes you can try to help fix this error is restarting your Android handset. How you do this will depend on the device model and version of Android it’s running.

Some phones allow you to hold the Power button and select the Restart option. On Samsung phones, you need to hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously instead.

When you get the screen with power options, press the Restart button and wait for it to progress through the restart process. After it completes, sign back in and see if you still get the error.

Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off

Another option you can try is turning on Airplane mode and then turning it off. That will disconnect you from all active networks and establish new connections.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen to get the Notification shade.
2. Find and tap the Airplane mode button to turn it on, then turn it off after about 30 seconds.

Remove and Reseat the SIM Card

Another cause of a not registered on network error on Android is a problem with the SIM card. It may not be connected correctly or become loose during everyday use. You will need to open the SIM card slot first. Use the SIM card ejector tool if your phone comes with one or you can also use a paperclip. Place it into the hole next to the SIM card, and the card and tray will pop out.

Wait a few seconds, pop the SIM card, and tray back into the SIM slot.

Update Your Android Device

If you’re seeing the not registered on network device error on Android, you might need to check for important device updates. Updates provide you with important bug fixes and security improvements.

If you’re running an older version of Android, it’s worth manually checking for updates. There could be a bug fix in Android or from the manufacturer waiting for you to download to resolve the “Not Registered on Network” error.

The steps to check for updates varies on each phone. For most users, try opening Settings > System > System updates, although the menus names may vary slightly. For example, on a Samsung Galaxy, it’s Settings > Software update.

Download and install any available updates, and when the process is complete, check to see if you are still getting the error.

Reset Network Settings on Android to Resolve Not Registered on Network Error

Your phone connects to various networks throughout the day. If the network settings aren’t correct, this mismatch can cause the error. The good news is you can quickly reset your network settings on Android.

To reset network settings on Android, follow these steps.

1. Launch Settings on your phone and select the System option.
2. Find and tap Reset options on the following menu.
3. Choose Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth from the Reset options screen.
4. Ensure you select your SIM card from the dropdown menu and tap the Reset settings button.
5. Enter your device’s PIN and tap the Reset settings button when the verification screen appears.

How to Reset Network Settings on Samsung Devices to Help With a Not Registered On Network Error

It’s worth noting that the path to reset network settings is less obvious if you have a Samsung device.

If you’re using a Samsung phone, head to Settings > General management > Reset > Reset network settings and verify the reset process.

Try a New SIM Card

Try a different SIM card if you still have problems with the Note Registered on Network error on your Android device. Remove your SIM card from your phone and put a new one in.

If you don’t have one, contact your carrier, and they will send you a new one. Or, head to a local retail location if one is nearby.

If the new SIM works, the problem was with the old SIM card, and you don’t want the non-working one anyway. If the new SIM doesn’t work, chances are the SIM slot itself is damaged. So in that instance, you’ll need to take it in for repair.

Troubleshooting Errors on Android

In addition to the solutions above, you can manually select your carrier or change the preferred network type from SIM & Network settings to fix a not registered on network error on your Android phone.