7 Ways to Fix Safari Cannot Find Server on iPhone, iPad

[HelenR]

While iPhone and iPad support various web browsing apps, Safari remains the most popular. However, when it runs into problems, it can be frustrating for users. Below are some of the most effective ways to fix the common "Safari Cannot Find Server" error.

These steps can also be applied to the iPhone 14 Series, including iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, as well as other iPhone models.

1. Check Your Internet Connection​

Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, ensure that your iPhone or iPad has a strong internet connection to allow Safari to perform properly. Here's what you can do:

• Ensure your device is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
• If the Wi-Fi connection is weak, try switching to mobile data (3G/4G).
• Check if your device is in Airplane Mode, and if it is, turn it off.

To disable Airplane Mode:
Go to Settings > Toggle the Airplane Mode switch off.

2. Verify the Website Address​

If you're manually typing in the website address, especially when coming from social media apps like Facebook or Twitter, ensure that the URL is correct. Even a small typo can cause Safari to fail to find the server.

3. Clear Safari Cache and Data​

If your internet connection is stable and the website URL is correct but the problem persists, try clearing Safari's cache and browsing data. Sometimes data conflicts from previous sessions can cause issues.
Steps:

• Go to Settings > Safari.
• Select Clear History and Website Data. This won’t delete your saved AutoFill information.

Afterward, reopen Safari and check if the issue is resolved.

4. Update DNS Settings​

One of the most common reasons for Safari not finding the server is unreliable DNS settings. To fix this, you can manually configure DNS servers on your iPhone or iPad.
Steps:

• Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
• Select the network you’re connected to and tap Configure DNS.
• Change the setting from Automatic to Manual.
• Add Google’s DNS servers (8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4), then save the changes.

5. Restart Your Device​

If none of the above methods work, restarting your device might fix the issue. A reboot can clear temporary glitches and free up system memory, potentially solving the Safari issue.

Check out these guides on restarting iPhone and iPad:

• How to Restart iPhone and iPad Easily
• Steps for Rebooting iPhone

6. Reset Network Settings​

If Safari continues to show a blank page or refuses to load any content, resetting your network settings could help. This will restore all network configurations to default. Steps:

• Go to Settings > General > Reset.
• Tap Reset Network Settings, confirm, and your device will restart.

7. Update iOS Software​

If Safari appears grayed out or stops working after opening, it could be due to a software bug, especially on iOS 11 or newer. Updating to the latest version of iOS can help resolve the issue. Steps:

• Go to Settings > General.
• Select Software Update, then proceed to install the latest version of iOS.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most "Safari Cannot Find Server" issues on your iPhone or iPad.