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Galaxy Watch 8 Not Connecting to WiFi

WiFi connection problems on the Galaxy Watch 8 usually stem from network configuration, authentication errors, or router compatibility issues. This guide covers solutions from basic setup to advanced troubleshooting.

Quick Diagnostic​

Check these basics first:

  • WiFi Enabled: Swipe down from watch face and verify the WiFi icon is active
  • Airplane Mode: Ensure airplane mode is disabled
  • Network Visibility: Your network should appear in the available networks list

Basic WiFi Setup​

Follow these steps to connect to a WiFi network.

  1. Open Settings on the watch
  2. Navigate to Connections WiFi
  3. Turn on WiFi if disabled
  4. Wait for the network scan to complete (10-15 seconds)
  5. Select your network from the list
  6. Enter the password (case-sensitive)
  7. Tap Connect and wait for authentication

Common Issues and Solutions​

Network Not Appearing

  • Ensure your router broadcasts on 2.4GHz (5GHz support is limited)
  • Check that SSID broadcast is enabled on your router
  • Move closer to the router during initial setup
  • Restart the router and scan again

Authentication Failures

  • Verify password accuracy and case sensitivity
  • Check that security protocol matches router settings (WPA2-PSK recommended)
  • For WPA3 networks, ensure router firmware is updated
  • Try removing and re-adding the network

Connection Drops

  • Monitor signal strength at your typical usage distance
  • Check for interference from other 2.4GHz devices (microwaves, baby monitors)
  • Verify your router isn't overloaded with connected devices
  • Update router firmware to the latest version

Network Reset​

If connection problems persist, reset network settings.

  1. Open Settings on the watch
  2. Go to General Reset
  3. Select Reset network settings
  4. Confirm the reset
  5. Restart the watch
  6. Reconfigure WiFi connections from scratch

Router Compatibility​

The Galaxy Watch 8 works best with specific network configurations.

  • 2.4GHz Networks: Primary compatibility. Connect to this band if available.

  • 5GHz Networks: Limited support. May not work with all routers.

  • Hidden Networks: Can be added manually with exact SSID, but may have connectivity issues.

  • Enterprise/Corporate Networks: WPA2-Enterprise has limited support. Contact IT for configuration help.

  • Captive Portals: Hotel and public WiFi with login pages may not display correctly on the watch.

Advanced Troubleshooting​

When basic solutions don't work, try these steps.

  • DNS Configuration: In network settings, try switching to manual DNS (8.8.8.8 or 1.1.1.1).

  • MAC Filtering: Check if your router's MAC address filtering is blocking the watch.

  • Channel Congestion: If many networks compete on the same channel, change your router's channel.

  • Phone Hotspot Test: Connect to your phone's mobile hotspot to verify the watch's WiFi hardware works.

When to Contact Support​

Contact Samsung Support if:

  • WiFi doesn't work after all troubleshooting steps
  • The watch cannot detect any networks
  • Hardware damage is suspected
  • You're within warranty and suspect antenna issues

See Also: How to Connect Galaxy Watch 8|Galaxy Watch 8 Not Pairing|Galaxy Watch 8 Troubleshooting

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