Ever been in the middle of an important phone call, only to hear the dreaded “server unreachable phone call message? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. This pesky error happens more often than we’d like to admit, but the good news is, most of the time, it’s fixable!

Whatever is plaguing your ability to make that call – terrible Wi-Fi, a traveling server, or even just a simple hiccup with your phone’s settings – we’ve got you covered.

Let’s delve into some likely culprits and easy fixes to get you making that call again in a jiffy!

🔑Key Highlights
  • Server unreachable usually means a network or connectivity issue.
  • Check network settings and try toggling airplane mode.
  • Restart your phone to clear glitches and restore connection.
  • Keep your system and apps updated to avoid server errors.
  • Adjust DNS, firewalls, or contact support if problems continue.

Common Causes for Server Unreachable Errors

A server unreachable error is a common barrier we have all faced at least once when making a phone call.

This error typically occurs due to a breakdown in communication between your phone and the network server, and that’s when your phone says server unreachable.

In addition to this, such errors can happen for several reasons, including network connectivity issues, server downtime, firewall restrictions, DNS errors, and misconfigured settings, which are some of the main causes:

1. Network Connectivity Issues

One of the most common and overlooked issues is poor network connection. An unstable mobile signal or weak internet can prevent your phone from reaching the required servers.

If you’re using mobile data, congestion or weak coverage can trigger connectivity issues. If you rely on WiFi networks for calls, distance from the router or too many connected devices could be the issue.

Reset network settings can help resolve this. It clears saved Wi-Fi and APN settings, giving your phone a fresh start.

2. Server Downtime or Maintenance

Sometimes the issue isn’t on your end. A server-unreachable phone call error may show up due to scheduled or unexpected maintenance.

Providers may take down parts of the phone system for updates or scaling. During this time, servers are unresponsive, leading to server-unreachable errors.

You can check your provider’s status page to see if there’s an update on their end.

3. DNS Errors

The DNS setting controls how your phone finds server IPs. When it breaks, even basic requests won’t go through.

An incorrect DNS setup can prevent your phone from resolving domain names, resulting in a server-unreachable message. The causes of server unreachable are often overlooked here.

Updating or switching DNS servers may resolve the issue.

4. Firewall Restrictions

A firewall is meant to protect our connection. But strict firewall restrictions can sometimes block valid traffic too.

This happens more often in workspaces using cloud telephony or on public Wi-Fi, where strict filters are in place.

Firewalls and security software might see VoIP traffic as unsafe, leading to the server being unreachable when calling.

5. Misconfigured Settings

Errors in your device or carrier’s contact customization settings can block connections entirely.

This includes incorrect ports, proxy setup, or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) configs. These are often needed in VoIP phone systems, especially in custom environments.

If you’re not using the default config, your setup might block outgoing calls.

6. Outdated Software or Updates

Sometimes, the fix is simple. Missed software updates or system updates can cause incompatibilities between your phone and the carrier’s servers.

Restarting your device after updating clears temporary bugs and helps restore the connection.

If that fails, restarting your phone again and checking for updates is the next step.

7. Cache and Temporary Data

Your phone stores background data to speed things up. But sometimes, that data creates errors.

Clear cache and data from your calling or VoIP apps to fix random server unreachable issues.

This step can also fix strange behavior in dialing or contacts.

8. Airplane Mode and SIM Issues

It may sound basic, but turning on airplane mode and then off again resets your mobile network.

If the problem continues, check your SIM card. A faulty or loose SIM often causes the server to be unreachable, meaning you’re seeing.

You can also try reset network settings or reseating the SIM physically.

9. Proxy or Dialing Issues

If you’re using a dialing code app or platform, confirm your settings. An incorrect outbound call prefix might block the call.

Check the provider status and routing logic for your VoIP phone app as well.

10. Uncommon Technical Conflicts

Rarely, it’s about server issues on your provider’s backend. This includes servers being unreachable due to overload or security flags.

If nothing else works, you may need to fix the server side by contacting your carrier or platform directly.

They can provide logs or tell you if there’s a known issue affecting your network settings.

Simple Solutions You Can Try First

Getting a server unreachable error – network settings – server unreachable – server unreachable or – phone says server unreachable? Don’t panic yet. There are quick fixes that can solve the problem without needing tech support.

Let’s walk through the basics.

1. Restart Your Mobile

This is always the first move. Restart your Mobile to clear background glitches. It refreshes your network connection and forces your phone to reconnect with the carrier’s Server.

2. Toggle Airplane Mode

Switch on airplane mode for a few seconds, then turn it off. This resets your network connections and can solve minor connection issues on the spot.

3. Check the SIM Card

Remove and reinsert your SIM card properly. Sometimes, a loose card leads to connectivity issues or random server unreachable message errors.

4. Reset Network Settings

Go to your device settings and choose the reset network settings option. It deletes saved Wi-Fi, mobile, and VPN settings, giving your phone a clean start. This step is helpful when your phone says server unreachable often.

5. Update Your Phone

Outdated firmware can lead to bugs. Make sure your device has the latest system updates and software updates. Updates fix background bugs and improve network connectivity issues.

6. Clear Cache and Data

Apps store temporary files that may cause problems. Head to your dialer or VoIP app settings and clear cache and data. This removes hidden errors and makes the app run smoother.

7. Try a Different Network

If you’re on mobile data, switch to Wi-Fi. If you’re already on Wi-Fi, try another one. This helps identify whether the Wi-Fi network or mobile provider is the cause.

8. Check for Provider Outages

Sometimes, it’s not your fault. Check your provider’s status page to see if there’s a known server issue. Scheduled maintenance or server downtime might be the real problem.

9. Review App Settings

If you’re using a VoIP phone or dialer app, double-check the contact customization or login credentials. One wrong setting can lead to server unreachable errors or failed outbound call attempts.

10. Final Tip: Try Another Device

Use a different phone to test the call. If it works, your device has a misconfigured setting or app conflict. Now you know where to look next.

Quick Fixes for iPhones

Step 1: Restart your phone

Turn it off, wait 10 seconds, turn it back on.
Fixes small bugs in network settings.

Step 2: Reset network settings

Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Clears Wi-Fi and VPN but restores network connection.

Step 3: Toggle airplane mode

Turn airplane mode on, wait a few seconds, and turn it off.
Resets all network connections fast.

Step 4: Update carrier settings

Go to Settings > General > About.
Tap to update if prompted. Helps your phone system stay synced.

Step 5: Reinsert the SIM card

Pop out your SIM card, wait, pop it back in.
Fixes SIM-related connectivity issues.

Step 6: Update iOS

Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Install the latest system updates to avoid bugs.

Step 7: Turn off VPN or firewalls

Disable any VPN or firewalls, or security software.
These can block VoIP phone calls.

Step 8: Reset the app

Delete and reinstall your calling or VoIP app.
Fixes misconfigured settings that block calls.

Step 9: Check provider status

Visit your carrier’s page for server downtime info.
If they’re down, it’s not your fault.

Quick Fixes for Android Phones

If your Android shows server unreachable, try this:

Step 1: Restart your phone

Power it off, wait 10 seconds, and power it back on.
Resets basic network settings.

Step 2: Toggle airplane mode

Turn airplane mode on, wait a few seconds, and turn it off.
Refreshes the network connection instantly.

Step 3: Reset network settings

Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
Clears saved data but fixes connectivity issues.

Step 4: Reinsert the SIM card

Remove your SIM card, wait, and reinsert it.
It solves server unreachable phone call errors linked to SIM issues.

Step 5: Update your phone

Go to Settings > System > System Update.
Install any new system updates.

Step 6: Turn off VPN or firewall apps

Disable VPN and check firewalls or security software.
They often block network connections.

Step 7: Update carrier settings

Some Android phones auto-update, others need a manual check in Settings > About Phone.
Keeps your phone system working right.

Step 8: Reinstall your VoIP app

Delete and reinstall it.
Wipes misconfigured settings that cause issues.

Step 9: Check provider status

Visit their website or app.
Look for alerts on server downtime or outages.

Solutions for Wi-Fi Calling and VoIP Apps

Using Wi-Fi calling or VoIP apps can sometimes result in a “server unreachable” message. This typically indicates issues with your network connection or the app’s settings.

Let’s go over the common fixes you can try to resolve the issue quickly.

Common causes for Server Unreachable errors.

1. Weak Wi-Fi Signal

Poor signal strength is often the main reason behind connectivity issues. If you’re too far from your router or if there are too many connected devices, your VoIP phone might struggle to connect. Try moving closer to the router or disconnecting unused devices.

2. Router Problems

Routers can crash or slow down from overuse. Restarting the router helps refresh the network settings and fix basic glitches. Simply unplug the router, wait for 10 seconds, and plug it back in.

3. Network Switch

Sometimes, switching networks helps. If you’re on Wi-Fi, switch to mobile data. If you’re on mobile data, try a different Wi-Fi. This helps identify if your phone system is blocked by the current network.

4. Outdated App Version

Old app versions can cause server-unreachable errors. Always update the calling or VoIP app from the App Store or Play Store. Updates often fix bugs related to network issues.

5. App Cache and Data

Corrupted app data leads to glitches. Clear the app’s cache and data from your phone settings to refresh it. This is especially useful when dealing with server-unreachable phone call issue errors.

6. Reinstall the App

If clearing the cache doesn’t help, uninstall and reinstall the app. This fixes broken files or misconfigured settings that might block connections. Make sure to log in again and allow permissions.

7. Firewalls or VPN

Some firewalls or security software can block VoIP traffic. If you’re using a VPN, try turning it off. On public or corporate Wi-Fi, you may need to contact the admin about firewall rules.

8. App Permissions

Make sure the app has the right access. Without a mic, contact, and network access, your call might not go through. Check permissions in your phone’s app settings.

9. Check Provider or Server Status

Sometimes the issue is not on your side. Check if the app’s service is experiencing server downtime. Most apps have status pages or support channels where you can verify this.

When the Problem Is Server-Side or Client-Side

Sometimes, the server unreachable message isn’t your fault at all. Knowing whether the issue is server-side or client-side helps you act faster. Let’s break it down so you can tell where the real problem lies.

1. Server-Side Problems

These happen on your provider’s end or the app’s backend. Common server errors include overload, maintenance, or server downtime. You can’t fix these on your own, but you can check the provider’s website or support page.

If others are reporting the same server-unreachable message, it’s most likely a server-side issue. You might also notice delays in messages or failed outbound calls during this time.

2. Client-Side Problems

These are issues from your device, app, or network connection. They include bad DNS settings, misconfigured settings, firewall restrictions, or even a weak Wi-Fi signal.

Your phone may say server unreachable if the local setup fails to reach the external server.

If switching networks or restarting your device helps, it’s probably client-side. Clearing the cache, updating the app, or checking contact customization settings can often resolve it.

Quick Tip to Know the Difference

Try a different device on the same network. If the new device connects, your problem is client-side. If both fail, the server issues are likely on your provider’s end.

Ways to Prevent This Mistake in the Future

Tired of seeing the server unreachable message?

These 5 simple habits can help keep your calls running smoothly.

Ways to prevent server unreachable message in the future.

1. Restart Your Phone Often

A regular restart helps clear bugs and keeps your network connections up to date. It’s a quick fix that prevents hidden errors.

2. Keep Software and System Updated

Install all software updates and system updates on time. This helps avoid server unreachable errors caused by outdated code.

3. Use Stable, Private Networks

Avoid weak signals and public Wi-Fi. Unstable network connections and firewall restrictions often cause problems.

4. Clear Cache and App Data

Too much stored data can lead to server errors. Clear your cache and data regularly to keep your device running smoothly.

5. Monitor Provider Status

If your provider status shows downtime, wait it out. Knowing when it’s their issue saves you time and stress.

Last Checklist: What to Do If “Server Unreachable” Is Displayed on Your Phone

If you see the server unreachable message, follow these quick steps to troubleshoot. First, check your network connection to ensure you’re on a stable Wi-Fi or mobile signal, as weak connections often cause issues.

Restart your phone to refresh your network settings and clear any temporary glitches. Next, clear the cache and data for your app to resolve app-related errors. Make sure your system updates and apps are up to date, as outdated software can lead to server unreachable errors.

Finally, test different networks, such as switching between mobile data and Wi-Fi, to see if the problem is with your network connection. These steps should help you resolve the issue quickly.

Wrapping Up: Your Ultimate Guide to Fixing “Server Unreachable” Errors

And that’s a wrap! Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on server unreachable errors, you can tackle them like a pro. Whether it’s a sneaky network issue or your provider’s server taking a nap, you’ve got the tools to handle it..

Keep your phone fresh with regular restarts, stay updated, and be mindful of your connection. Next time that pesky error pops up, just remember: a few simple fixes and you’ll be back to calling in no time!

So go ahead—dial away without a worry in the world!

FAQs

Why does my phone say “server unreachable”?

It means your phone can’t connect to the network server. This often happens due to signal issues, misconfigured settings, or provider outages.

Is “server unreachable” a network or phone problem?

It can be both. Try restarting your device first, then check your SIM card, network settings, or contact your carrier.

How do I fix “server unreachable” on Android?

Go to Settings > Network > Reset Network Settings. Also, toggle Airplane Mode and restart your phone.

How do I fix “server unreachable” on iPhone?

Head to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset > Reset Network Settings. A reboot or SIM card reset may also help.

Will resetting network settings delete anything?

No. It won’t erase your photos, apps, or contacts—but you’ll lose saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth pairings.

Prasanta Raut

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.

Prasanta, founder and CEO of Dialaxy, is redefining SaaS with creativity and dedication. Focused on simplifying sales and support, he drives innovation to deliver exceptional value and shape a new era of business excellence.