Complaints like US Cellular data not working correctly are pretty common, primarily because cellular data is the prime choice of everyone who needs wireless service.
If occasionally your 4G or 5G connection stops functionally, there are several troubleshooting methods you can use to fix the issue.
A no connection error is commonly the result of a basic software glitch. When this happens, restart your smartphone. A specific app or your device’s software may have crashed. Hold and press the power button, then choose the restart option.
Once the phone switches on, your 4G or 5G connection should be optimized.
If the restart does not work, a full shutdown of your device may be necessary.
Turn off your smartphone, then wait for a few seconds before you turn it back on. Doing so forces a re-connection to your mobile network.
Why US Cellular Data Not Working
Is cellular data not working on your smartphone, and you are not sure why?
This article will learn the common reasons why you are experiencing a no connection error and how you can fix the problem for good.
1. Mobile Network not Available
The cause of the problem may be a network outage or simply your mobile data is off.
If it’s the former, check with your network provider. Otherwise, enable mobile data on your phone.
2. Airplane Mode Enabled
When Airplane mode is turned on, cellular data is automatically switched off.
3. Outdated Firmware
Updating your phone to the latest software solves most problems with mobile data not working, especially if bugs cause it.
4. Unseated SIM Card
If you recently traveled abroad, you may have forgotten to put back your SIM card. Make sure your SIM card is not damaged as it can be a cause of issue too.
5. Interference
If you have an older phone model, your Bluetooth or Wi-Fi may interfere with mobile network connectivity. Turning them off may help you get your mobile data back.
Now that you know what may be causing your US cellular data malfunction, you can use these troubleshooting solutions.
How to Fix US Cellular Data Not Working
If your cellular data is not working, you can’t surf the web, send emails, or chat. It can be a real nuisance, so here are the things you can do to fix the issue.
Solution #1: Turn On Mobile Data
If your cellular data is not working, but there is no network outage, your mobile data may be off. Enable it in your phone to use the connection type.
How to enable mobile data on Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Press Data Usage.
- Click the switch to activate Mobile Data.
How to enable mobile data on iOS:
- Go to Settings.
- In the Cellular menu, turn Cellular Data on.
Tip: You can also turn on mobile data in your Quick Settings.
Simply drag down the quick settings menu from the top of your screen and tap the Mobile Data icon to turn it on. It’s ON if the icon is not dimmed.
Solution #2: Turn Airplane Mode Off
In addition to turning the Mobile Data on, you can also check the Airplane mode on the Settings.
Turning it on then off can refresh the mobile data signals, enabling you to access the 4G mobile connection.
- To toggle the Airplane mode, go to Settings.
- Open the Network menu.
- Turn on or off the Airplane mode from there.
Note: The Airplane mode is OFF when you see the switch is white and positioned to the left.
Solution #3: Restart Your Phone
If your cellular data is not active even though it is switched on in the Settings menu, try restarting your smartphone.
It is a simple solution, but it can fix a variety of bugs and glitches.
If you have a US cellular not working iPhone, here’s how you can restart your device:
- For iPhone 8 and earlier, press and hold the Power button until the slider appears.
For iPhone X, press and hold the Volume up/down button and the side button until the slider appears.
- Slide the white power icon from left to right to turn off your device.
- Wait for a few seconds, then press and hold the Power button (for iPhone 8) and the Side button (for iPhone X) until the logo appears on the screen.
If you have an Android device, press and hold down the Power button and Volume up/down until the device shuts down. Turn the device back on by pressing the Power button for a few seconds.
Solution #4: Turn Off Wi-Fi
Although it rarely happens, sometimes the Wi-Fi interferes with your mobile data. Try turning it off. Maybe you’ll get your connection back.
Smartphones have a software switch in the Settings menu that turns on or off the Wi-Fi.
Depending on the phone you are using, look for a similar menu or apps that says Wi-Fi, Wireless Networks, Network Connections, or Network & Internet.
Turning off Wi-Fi works in some situations because you may be connected, but you are not getting a strong enough connection.
You may be out of range of the router but not far enough to drop the connection. In this area, you won’t be able to go online over mobile data or Wi-Fi.
Solution #5: Re-Insert Your Phone’s SIM Card
Check your SIM card to make sure you have it in your phone, and there is no damage.
If you have a new phone and cannot activate your mobile data, a missing SIM card could be the issue.
- Insert the ejector tool into the small pinhole opening the SIM tray.
- Apply pressure until the tray pops out.
- Grab hold of the SIM tray and pull it out.
- Get the SIM out, then put it back again.
- Re-insert the SIM tray.
Removing and reinserting the SIM gives your phone a fresh start and a chance to connect to your wireless provider’s network again.
Solution #6: Check Your Phone’s Network Settings
If the issue is not resolved after you reseat your SIM card, it is time to troubleshoot a more significant software issue.
Reset the network to delete all stored networking data, such as VPN, Bluetooth, and Cellular settings.
Doing so lets you begin with a new connection like you are connecting to your network provider’s cellular network for the first time.
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Last Thoughts
If you are experiencing connection issues with your mobile data, restarting your smartphone is the easiest way to fix the problem. Press and hold the power button until you see the restart option. Once the phone switches on, you will have an optimized 4G connection.
If your US Cellular data not working issue is making your life hard, this post will help you understand the cause of the problem and give you effective troubleshooting solutions.
Contact your wireless carrier if you have made it this far, but you still haven’t resolved the issue. They may be doing maintenance on their cell towers.
If you think this blog is helpful, but you have other issues with another mobile data set up, our blog can definitely help.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.