Galaxy S4 and Galaxy S3 Constantly Scan For WiFi Networks [How to fix]

One of the common problems encountered by early Galaxy S3 adopters back in 2012 was the device kept on scanning for available WiFi networks but couldn’t connect even if it could find one. Other users reported the device would go about the ordeal without even the success of finding an available network to connect to despite the fact the user is a foot away from a working router. This problem is also starting to build traction on Galaxy S4 as more and more owners going forward reporting this very same problem.

The good news is it’s neither a bug nor a serious hardware issue with the device. In fact it occurs only to owners who connect to the same network every day for quite some time already. The problem may be caused by corrupt connection data that forces the phone to scan for available networks despite the fact that the network it is trying to connect to was already saved in its memory.

Basically, there are two things you can do to fix this problem on both the Samsung Galaxy S3 and the new Galaxy S4. At least, 80 percent of the time this problem will be solved by ‘forgetting’ the network and letting the devices scan for it but if it doesn’t do the job, clearing the memory would do the trick.

Forgetting Networks on Galaxy S4

1. From the home screen, tap the Menu key.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Tap Connections tab.
4. Tap WiFi.
5. Tap and hold the network you want to forget.
6. Choose Forget Network.

Forgetting Networks on Galaxy S3

1. From any Home screen, tap the Menu key.
2. Tap Settings.
3. If necessary, tap the Wi-Fi Switch to On. The Switch moves right and turns green.
4. Tap Wi-Fi.
5. Touch and hold on the Wi-Fi network.
6. Tap Forget network.

NOTE: You should know that after forgetting the network, the phones will automatically scan for available networks in the vicinity.

Just in case the devices still enters the unending loop of WiFi scanning, the following may be able to remedy the problem.

Clearing Memory on Galaxy S4 & S3

1. From the home screen, press and hold the Home button.
2. Hit the bottom left button (pie chart).
3. Tap the RAM tab.
4. Tap Clear Memory.

Bottom Line

In case the problem couldn’t be solved by these simple procedures and you badly need an internet connection, connecting to a mobile data network would be your best option. You may also need to seek help from professionals or authorized technician to have the problem fixed permanently.

Tell Us Your Problems

Are you currently experiencing problems with your phone? Tell us about them by sending an email at [email protected] and rest assured we will look into them and do our best to find solutions. All we need is detailed information so we can help you better.