How to Fix 'Not Registered On Network' on Samsung Galaxy/Android

'Not registered on network' is a common error that can occur on Samsung galaxy devices. This error can prevent users from making or receiving calls, sending or receiving text messages, or accessing the internet. Fortunately, there are several steps that users can take to resolve this error.

If your phone shows a "No Service" Error, Read: Why does my phone say no service? If it shows a "No Sim Card" Error, Read No SIM card error on Android. If it shows a "Mobile Network not Available" Error, Read Mobile Network not Available error on Android.

3 Samsung devices with the 'Not Registered On Network Error' message on top..
Credit Technobezz. 3 Samsung devices with the 'Not Registered On Network Error' message on top.

Why You Encounter the 'Not Registered On Network' Error and What It Means?

The "not registered on network" is an error message that appears on Android phones when they fail to connect to a carrier's network. This error message can prevent users from making calls, sending text messages, and using mobile data.

The error message can occur due to various reasons, such

  • Outdated firmware
  • A damaged SIM card
  • Carrier outage
  • incorrect network settings, and more.

It is important to note that the error message can vary depending on the phone model and carrier. Some users may see "Emergency Calls Only" or "No Service" instead of "Not Registered on Network." In such cases, the troubleshooting steps may differ slightly.

Causes of Not Registered On Network Error

The error message typically indicates that the device cannot establish a connection with the cellular network. There are several reasons why this error may occur, including SIM card issues, software issues, network issues, and hardware issues. The "Not Registered On Network" error is a standard Android problem that occurs on T-Mobile, Vodafone, AT&T, Airtel, Straight Talk, Verizon and Rogers.

SIM Card Issues

  • One of the most common reasons is an issue with the SIM card. The SIM card may not be inserted properly into the phone, or it may be damaged. In some cases, the SIM card may not be activated, or it may have been deactivated by the carrier.

Software Issues

  • If the phone's operating system or firmware is outdated, it may not be compatible with the network. In some cases, a software update may be required to resolve the issue. Additionally, incorrect APN settings can cause the error, preventing the phone from connecting to the network.

Network Issues

  • If the network operator is experiencing a problem, the phone may not be able to connect to the network. Additionally, if the phone is in an area with poor coverage, it may not be able to connect to the network.

Hardware Issues

  • If the phone's SIM card tray is damaged, the SIM card may not be inserted properly, causing the error. Additionally, if the phone's power button is not functioning properly, it may prevent the phone from connecting to the network.

How to Register Your Samsung Network and Fix the 'Not Registered on Network' Error?

In this section, we will explore some of the most effective solutions to this problem.

Ensure

  • Ensure you have an active and valid mobile data plan with your current carrier and that your reception is strong.
  • Ensure that the Airplane mode is OFF. Sometimes, we accidentally enable this feature. Open Settings > Connections > Airplane mode. Toggle the switch button.
  • Reinsert your SIM card, check for damage, and ensure it is inserted correctly. If you have another phone around, place your SIM card in it and try to make a phone call.
  • Restart your phone.

Method 1: Software Update

Make sure that your device is running the latest version of the Android operating system.

Software Update on newer devices

From your home screen, select :

  • Settings
  • Navigate to System updates
  • Check for system updates

Software Update on older devices

  • Navigate to Settings
  • Scroll down to the extreme bottom
  • Select Software Update
  • Please wait for it to reboot and complete the update
  • Finished!
Updating your Samsung phone
Credit Technobezz. Updating your Samsung phone

If your device discovers a new update, simply tap 'Download now.' Once the download is complete, a new screen will appear, indicating that the software version is ready for installation.

If the previous method doesn't resolve your issue, I suggest reading about how to restore the Galaxy's null IMEI and fix the 'Not Registered on Network' problem

Method 2: Rebooting and Reinserting

If this method doesn't work initially, you can try it again by following these steps:

  1. Turn off your phone by simultaneously pressing the Power Button and the Home (or Volume Down Button).
  2. Wait for two minutes while the phone is powered off.
  3. If your phone's battery is removable, take out the battery and the SIM card.
  4. Press and hold the Power and Home (or Volume Down) buttons together ten times.
  5. Continue holding the Power and Home (or Volume Down) buttons together for 1-3 minutes.
  6. Re-insert the SIM card and the battery (if removed).
  7. Turn on your phone.
  8. After your phone is on, remove and reinsert the SIM card five times (skip this step if you need to remove the battery before taking out the SIM card on some Android phones).
  9. You'll receive a message prompting you to restart your phone; click on it.
  10. Your Android phone should now start up without any errors.

Method 3: Checking SIM Card

If you're encountering this error, it may be caused by a physically damaged or improperly inserted SIM card. To troubleshoot, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the SIM card and inspect it for any physical damage.
  2. If the SIM card appears to be in good condition, try inserting a different SIM card.
  3. Check if the issue is resolved after inserting the new SIM card.
A removed sim card
@Technobezz

Method 4: Access Service Mode

Accessing Service Mode on a mobile device involves entering a specific mode that allows you to configure advanced settings, usually for troubleshooting or technical adjustments.

To use this method, follow these steps in your Android phone's dialer:

  1. Open the Dialer: Start by opening the phone dialer app on your Android device.
  2. Enter Service Mode Code: Input the code *#*#4636#*#* into the dialer. This is the standard USSD code used to access the Service Mode on many Android devices.
  3. Access Service Mode: After dialing the code, the phone should automatically take you to the Service Mode menu.
  4. Select Device Information: Choose "Device information" or "Phone information" from the available options.
  5. Run Ping Test: Tap on the "Run Ping test" button. This will perform a basic network test.
  6. Radio Option: Scroll to the "Radio" option. If the radio (mobile network module) is turned off, you should turn it on.
  7. Reboot Device: After adjusting settings, you may see a prompt or an option to reboot your device. Click on the "Reboot" button to restart your phone.
  8. Check : Once your device restarts, check to see if the issue have been resolved.
Phone dialer with *#*#4636#*#*
@Technobezz. Phone dialer with *#*#4636#*#*

Method 5: Corrupt ESN

A Corrupt ESN (Electronic Serial Number) refers to a situation where there are issues with the unique identification number assigned to your mobile device. This number is crucial for the network to identify and authenticate your device.

  1. Open Dialer: Turn on your device and open the phone dialer.
  2. Check IMEI Number: Enter *#06# to display the IMEI number. If it shows 'Null' or is absent, there might be a problem with the IMEI.
  3. Access Service Menu: Dial *#197328640# or ##197328640##* to access the service menu.
  4. Select 'Common' Option: In the menu, select the 'Common' option.
  5. Deactivate Field Test Mode (FTM): Go to option 1, Field Test Mode (FTM), and make sure it's turned OFF. Turning FTM off can help restore the IMEI number.
  6. Turn Off FTM: Return to key input and select option 2 to turn off FTM.
  7. Remove and Reinsert SIM Card: Take out the SIM card, wait for 2 minutes, then reinsert it.
  8. Re-access Service Menu: Turn on the device and dial *#197328640# again.
  9. Navigate to Debug Screen: Go to Debug screen > Phone Control > NAS Control > RRC > RRC Revision.
  10. Select Option 5: Within this menu, select Option 5.
  11. Restart Phone: Restart your phone.
  12. Check : After restarting, check if the IMEI number is restored and the issue is resolved.

Method 6: Select Network Operator

If you are in a low reception area that doesn't support 5G or 4G, it's best to switch to 3G or 2G.

Go to Settings on your phone.

  • Go to Wireless & Networks Or Connections
  • Select Mobile Networks
  • Select Network Operators
  • Tap on Search Now
  • Then, Select your network.

You can also select "Choose automatically" to let your device select the best network mode based on your location.

Method 7: Reset Network Settings

Resetting the network settings on your device can often fix network-related issues. To reset the network settings, go to Settings :

  • Tap General Management.
  • Select Reset
  • Tap Reset Settings.
  • Select Reset network settings
Resetting Network settings on Samsung
Credit Technobezz. Resetting Network settings on Samsung

Method 8: Update APN Settings

Updating your APN (Access Point Name) settings is crucial for ensuring that your mobile device can connect effectively to your carrier's data network

Update your APN Settings.

  • Navigate to Settings
  • Tap Connections.
  • Tap Mobile Networks
  • Select Access Point Names
  • Tap More (3 dots)
  • Tap Reset to Default.
  • Then enter the new APN Settings

View the Updated APN Settings For AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint ( +4 More)

Remember, incorrect APN settings can lead to issues with data connectivity and MMS messaging services, so it's important to enter the information accurately.

Tips/FAQ

Factory Reset

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, you may need to perform a factory reset on your device. Before proceeding, ensure that you have backed up all your essential data. To perform a factory reset:

  1. Go to 'Settings' on your device.
  2. Navigate to 'General Management.'
  3. Select 'Reset.'
  4. Choose 'Factory Data Reset.'

This action will erase all data on your device and restore it to its original factory settings.

Check for Airplane Mode

If your device is in Airplane mode, it will not be able to connect to a network. To check if Airplane mode is on, go to your device's settings and look for an "Airplane Mode" option. If it is on, turn it off and try connecting to a network again.

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