Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Ron D. Morgan
If your device is showing the Network Not Available error on the Safelink network, it means the device is not receiving signals from the network. It can be frustrating because you can’t make calls, send texts, or even use mobile data.
In summary, if your device is getting this error, it could be caused by several factors like the device on airplane mode or outdated software on the device. One quick way to fix the issue is to power cycle the device.
Continue reading this post to understand in detail why your device is showing this error and the steps you can take to fix the issue.
Why Your Device Is Showing The Network Not Available Error On Safelink
Here are some of the reasons your device is showing the network error on the Safelink network:
a. Outside Coverage Area
One possible reason may be that your current location is outside the Safelink coverage area. In other words, your location is far from the nearest Safelink network tower, or the tower is blocked in the location. It is common if you travel to a new location.
b. Airplane Mode Activated
Activating the airplane functionality on your device disconnects the device from receiving network signals. It could be that you mistakenly toggled the airplane mode icon on your device.
c. Outdated Software
The device software, also known as firmware powers the functionality of the device. That includes network connectivity. Leaving the firmware outdated can cause the ‘network not available’ error.
d. Liquid or Physical Damage
Physical or liquid damage can affect the device motherboard, thus affecting the network connection.
Ways To Fix The Network Not Available Error On Safelink
a. Check Coverage In Location
This will most likely not be the issue because Safelink Wireless uses Verizon towers. Although Verizon has one of the best 4G and 5G network coverage in the country, there are still some locations where the network has poor or no coverage at all.
If that is the case, your only option is to wait till you get back to a location within coverage to use your Safelink phone.
b. Turn Off Airplane Mode
Check the airplane mode icon on your device to see if it’s been enabled. If it’s enabled, you will see an airplane icon beside the network bar. Toggle the icon to disable airplane mode on your device. Another way to turn it off is to go to Settings> Network Settings> Airplane mode> Off.
c. Restart Device
Most times, restarting your device is all you need to do to get it working perfectly. The process is known as the power cycle process and it works to fix minor glitches and cache issues on the device.
Turn off your device. Wait for 60 seconds, and turn on the device. If this doesn’t fix the issue, continue with any of the other troubleshooting tips below.
d. Uninstall Recent Apps
Some third-party apps can cause glitches and errors that can result in network issues on the device. Uninstall any recent third app on your device and see if it resolves the network error. If not, install the app and try the other tips below.
e. Check SIM Card Placement
Another tip is to check the SIM card tray on the device to see if the SIM card shifted, especially if the device fell on a hard surface not long ago. Wipe the SIM card with a clean cloth. That is the side with the chip to clean dust and dirt.
When replacing the SIM card, make sure to lay the SIM to be in sync with the SIM tray placement.
f. Repair Device
Take the device to a technician for repairs if there has been any incident of liquid or physical damage.
g. Update Software
As mentioned earlier, leaving the device software not updated can lead to a network error. You have to check for and update the software version on your device.
To do this, go to Settings> About Phone> System> Software Update> Check for Updates> Install. After installing the software update, restart your phone to save the updates.
h. Perform a Factory Reset
Note that we left this option for the last. Factory reset is not advisable unless it is necessary. Before you start the reset process, make sure you back up all your important data. That includes your contact, video, audio, and doc files because the factory reset will clear the data.
To perform a factory reset, go to Settings> Backup and Reset> Factory Data Reset. After that, restart your device.
i. Contact Safelink Customer Support
If none of the options have worked so far, you have to contact Safelink customer support for further support. It could be that the network is going through routine maintenance or has some technical issue going on. Contact support at 1-800-378-1684.
Further Reading
- Safelink Account Number and PIN
- Safelink Network Not Available
- Safelink Enrollment Number
- Safelink Change Number
- Safelink Tracking Number Not Working
Hi, I’m Ron D. Morgan. TECODY IS MY BRAINCHILD. I’ve worked in a tech startup in the last 7 years. I decided to branch out and start TECODY as a side project to provide tech troubleshooting tips for readers.
Got my two friends who are Nerd Heads too and here we are. The aim here is to provide readers with accurate info to help them resolve basic troubleshooting issues with Network and devices. You can always reach out to us via our Contact Us Page.