How to turn on Wi-Fi on an iPhone 5s: instructions with photos and troubleshooting

Even 13 years after its release iPhone 5s remains a popular device, especially among those who value compactness, reliability and simplicity iOSHowever, owners of older iPhones often encounter difficulties connecting to wireless networks. The button Wi-Fi It doesn't click, it doesn't find the network, it doesn't accept the password. If you're also wondering how to turn it on Wi-Fi on iPhone 5s, - this article will help you understand the details.

We won't just show you where the wireless switch is, but we'll also break it down Unique features of iOS 12.5.7 (latest supported version for 5s), which affect the operation of the module Wi-FiWe'll also provide a troubleshooting checklist if your network stubbornly won't turn on. Spoiler: in 30% of cases, the problem isn't with your phone, but with your router or carrier settings.

Where is the Wi-Fi button on the iPhone 5s?

Unlike modern iPhones, where Wi-Fi can be enabled via Control center (swipe down) iPhone 5s With iOS 12 The route is a bit longer. Here are two official methods:

• 📱 Via Control Center: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen → tap the icon Wi-Fi (if it is not there, read the section on settings below).
• ⚙️ Via Settings: open Settings → Wi-Fi → Move the slider to the "On" position.

If the icon Wi-Fi V Control center missing - it could have been removed manually. To return:

1. Go to Settings → Control Center → Customize controls.
2. Find in the list Wi-Fi and tap on the green “+” next to it.
3. Drag the icon to the top of the list (the first 4 positions are displayed by default).

Important: on iPhone 5s With iOS 12.5.7 no function Automatic connection to Wi-Fi, which appeared in newer versions. This means the phone won't automatically search for familiar networks—you'll have to connect manually each time.

Step-by-step instructions: how to connect to Wi-Fi on an iPhone 5s

Let's assume you've already turned it on Wi-Fi, but the network won't connect. Follow this algorithm:

1. Activate the module: Settings → Wi-Fi → "On" slider. Wait for the list of networks to load (this may take up to 30 seconds).
2. Select network: Tap on the name of your network. If it's not listed, click Another... and enter the name manually.
3. Enter password: Please note that iPhone 5s Case-sensitive! If the password is copied from a message, make sure there are no extra spaces.
4. Confirm: click ConnectIf a warning appears about unprotected network - this is normal for public access points.

If an error appears after entering the password Incorrect password:

• 🔄 Reboot your router (turn off the power for 10 seconds).
• 📝 Make sure you entered your password in the correct keyboard layout (English/Russian).
• 🔍 Check if the password has changed in the router settings (go to the address in the browser) 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

What to do if Wi-Fi doesn't turn on?

Situation: You move the slider Wi-Fi, but it immediately returns to the "Off" position, or the network can't find any access points. The causes could be software or hardware related. Let's go through the diagnostics:

1. Checking Airplane Mode

It's trivial, but often forgotten: if it's turned on Airplane mode, Wi-Fi And Bluetooth automatically turn off. How to check:

• 📱 Swipe up from the bottom → see if the airplane icon is lit.
• ⚙️ Or: Settings → Airplane Mode → turn off the slider.

2. Reset network settings

If iPhone 5s "forgot" how to work with networks, a reset will help. Attention: After this procedure, you will have to re-enter passwords for all saved ones. Wi-Fi-networks.

Settings → General → Reset → Reset network settings

3. Checking restrictions

Sometimes Wi-Fi blocked through Restrictions (parental control). To check:

1. Open Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions.
2. Enter the restrictions password (if set).
3. Go to Allowed applications and make sure that Wi-Fi included.

4. Hardware malfunctions

If nothing helps, the problem may be:

• 🔌 Wi-Fi Antenna: on iPhone 5s It's located at the bottom of the case. Drops or exposure to moisture often cause it to malfunction.
• 🔋 Antenna power connector: oxidation of contacts after long-term use.
• 🛠️ Wi-Fi/Bluetooth module: on the board (requires soldering).

How to test a Wi-Fi antenna yourself?

Open the back cover of the iPhone 5s (you'll need a P2 penta-head screw). The Wi-Fi antenna is the thin black wire running from the bottom left corner of the logic board to the connector. J4100Visually inspect for cracks or oxidation. If you're inexperienced, it's best to take it to a service center.

⚠️ Attention: If after resetting settings or updating iOS Wi-Fi stopped working completely - do not try to disassemble the phone yourself. iPhone 5s there is a high risk of damaging the cable Touch ID, which will result in the phone being blocked.

Table: Common iPhone 5s Wi-Fi Errors and Their Solutions

iPhone 5s Wi-Fi Features: What You Need to Know

iPhone 5s supports Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) only on frequency 2.4 GHz. It means:

• 📶 No 5 GHz support: If your router broadcasts two networks (for example, MyWiFi_2G And MyWiFi_5G), connect only to the first one.
• 🐢 Speed ​​is limited to 150 Mbps: Even with a 300 Mbps tariff, the actual speed will be lower due to hardware limitations.
• 🔒 No WPA3: use only WPA2-PSK (AES) in the router settings.

One more nuance: on iPhone 5s no function Wi-Fi Assist (automatic switching to mobile internet when the signal is weak). If the network drops, the phone will simply lose the connection until you manually reconnect.

How to boost Wi-Fi signal on iPhone 5s

Weak signal is a common problem with older iPhones. Here are some effective ways to improve reception:

• 📡 Change the position of the router: Place it on a raised surface (for example, on a cabinet) and away from metal objects.
• 🔄 Change the channel: Select a channel in the router settings 1, 6 or 11 - they are the least loaded.
• 📶 Use a repeater: If the router is far away, install a signal repeater (for example, TP-Link RE200).
• 🔋 Turn off energy saving: V Settings → Battery turn off Low power mode - it limits work Wi-Fi.

If the signal disappears while moving around the house:

⚠️ Attention: On iPhone 5s antenna Wi-Fi The charging port is located at the bottom of the phone. Hold the phone so that the lower left corner (where the charging port is) is not covered by your hand or a case with metal inserts.

Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi on the iPhone 5s

Can I connect my iPhone 5s to Wi-Fi 6?

No, iPhone 5s supports only Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) on frequency 2.4 GHzEven if the router is broadcasting Wi-Fi 6, the phone will connect using an outdated protocol at a speed of up to 150 Mbps.

Why can't my iPhone 5s see some networks?

Most likely, these networks operate on a frequency 5 GHz or use WPA3. iPhone 5s does not support either. Try:

1. Enable compatibility mode on your router. 802.11b/g/n (turn off 802.11ac).
2. Make sure the network is broadcast on 2.4 GHz.

How to reset Wi-Fi settings without affecting other data?

IN Settings → General → Reset → Reset network settingsThis will delete all saved passwords. Wi-Fi, but will not affect photos, apps, or messages.

Can you use iPhone 5s as a hotspot?

Yes, but with some reservations:

• Function Modem mode only works when connected to mobile Internet (not via Wi-Fi).
• Maximum upload speed is up to 42 Mbps (depending on operator).
• On iOS 12.5.7 There is no limit on the number of connected devices, but stability leaves much to be desired.

To enable: Settings → Tethering → move the slider.

Why did Wi-Fi stop working after updating iOS?

This is a known issue. iOS 12.5.7Solutions:

1. Reset network settings (Settings → General → Reset).
2. Roll back to iOS 12.5.5 (if there is a backup).
3. Contact the service center - the module may need to be reflashed. Wi-Fi.

⚠️ Firmware details may vary depending on region and model. Check the website for the latest software versions. Apple.