It can be frustrating when you're trying to join an online class or when Wi-Fi that worked fine yesterday suddenly stops working.
In times like this, instead of changing all your settings at once, it's best to step through and identify where the problem is occurring.
Here are five things to check when you experience connection issues with your home Wi-Fi in Japan.
1. Check if Other Devices Are Also Disconnected
If the internet isn't working on your smartphone, check if the same issue happens on your laptop or tablet.
If only one specific smartphone fails to connect, it might be a setting issue on that device. If multiple devices can't connect, you'll need to check the router or the service line.
If only one device is affected, try toggling its Wi-Fi off and on, or restart the device.
2. Make Sure Wi-Fi Is Turned On and Connected to Your Device
Check whether the Wi-Fi function on your smartphone or laptop is enabled. Also, verify that you haven't accidentally selected another nearby network.
If you are connecting for the first time, check the network name (SSID) and password provided on the device.
Even if an icon indicates you're connected to Wi-Fi, it doesn't always mean your internet access is working. If you're connected but web pages won't load, check the next step as well.
3. Check the Power Status and Restart the Router
Check if your home Wi-Fi router's power cable is properly plugged in and whether the indicator lights look abnormal.
Temporary glitches can often be resolved by restarting the router. Turn the power off and on according to your model's manual, wait until the device fully boots up, and then try connecting again.
Restarting the power and resetting the device are different. Before pressing the RESET button, please check your manual or support instructions. You can also refer to the au Official Connection Troubleshooting Guide for basic device identification and restart methods.
4. Check the Distance and Placement of the Router
If the home Wi-Fi connects when you are close by but fails in another room, distance or physical obstacles might be the cause.
Home Wi-Fi devices using cellular networks rely heavily on receiving clear external signals. Try moving the router to an open location and compare the connection quality.
However, placing it by a window isn't always best. Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures, and follow the installation instructions for your device. For details on router placement, you can check the GMO Tokutoku BB Official Guide.
5. If It Still Doesn't Work, Gather Your Symptoms and Contact Support
If the issue persists after checking these basic steps, seek support rather than repeatedly changing settings.
When contacting support, providing the following information will help explain your situation clearly:
- When the connection issue started
- Whether the issue occurs across all devices
- Whether the Wi-Fi connection itself fails, or Wi-Fi connects but internet access fails
- What the router's indicator lights look like
- Whether anything changed after restarting or moving the router
When sending photos of the indicator lights, please make sure sensitive information like the Wi-Fi password on the device label is not visible.
Have Questions About Internet in Japan? Contact KEICALL
When your internet goes down, explaining the problem in difficult Japanese can feel daunting.
If you have any questions while using KEICALL, feel free to contact us via KakaoTalk Korean Customer Support. Providing details about your plan, symptoms, and what you've already checked will help us assist you faster.
👉 KEICALL KakaoTalk Support
https://pf.kakao.com/_xoxdKeC/chat
👉 Home Wi-Fi & Pocket Wi-Fi Plans
https://www.keicall.com/ko/plans/unlimited-wifi