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Have you been trying to connect your Garmin watch to WiFi but running into issues?
If yes, then you are in the right place for a solution.
Garmin watches come with built-in WiFi functionality, allowing you to sync activities, download software updates, and even install apps from the Garmin Connect IQ store without needing a smartphone connection.
This is a crucial feature for those who want a seamless experience using their smartwatch.
So what happens when we encounter problems while trying to connect our Garmin watch to WiFi?
In this guide, you will learn how to connect your Garmin watch to WiFi and why you might be facing issues while doing so.
Why Won’t My Garmin Watch Connect To WiFi?
Problems like this are common with Garmin devices and can often be fixed manually.
However, the cause of the issue may differ depending on the model of your Garmin watch and the WiFi network settings.
From the top of our heads, a weak WiFi signal or incorrect password is usually the main culprit.
Other times, it could be that the Garmin Connect app is not properly set up, or your watch needs a firmware update before it can connect to WiFi.
How To Connect Garmin Watch To WiFi
To connect your Garmin watch to WiFi, the first solution is to ensure that you are using a 2.4 GHz WiFi network, as Garmin watches do not support 5 GHz WiFi.
The second solution is to add your WiFi network correctly using the Garmin Connect app or Garmin Express on a computer.
The third solution is to check for any firmware updates that might be required for your watch to support WiFi connectivity.
There is also a fourth solution in this guide for fixing this issue—keep reading to find out.
Solution #1: Ensure Your WiFi Network is 2.4 GHz
The first solution is to make sure your router is broadcasting on a 2.4 GHz frequency, as Garmin watches do not support 5 GHz WiFi.
Steps to check and change your WiFi frequency:
- Log into your WiFi router settings (refer to your router manual for details).
- Locate the Wireless Settings section.
- Ensure that 2.4 GHz is enabled and broadcasting.
- If your router only has 5 GHz, consider enabling a 2.4 GHz guest network.
- Restart your router and try connecting your Garmin watch again.
Solution #2: Add WiFi Network via Garmin Connect App
The second solution is to use the Garmin Connect app on your phone to manually add your WiFi network.
Steps to connect Garmin watch to WiFi via Garmin Connect:
- Open the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone.
- Tap on your Garmin device at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down and select Wi-Fi Networks.
- Tap on Add a Network and enter your WiFi details.
- Save the settings and wait for your watch to connect.
If you are still unable to connect, move on to the next solution.
Solution #3: Connect Using Garmin Express on a Computer
If the Garmin Connect app does not work, you can use Garmin Express on your computer to add a WiFi network manually.
Steps to connect Garmin watch to WiFi via Garmin Express:
- Download and install Garmin Express on your computer.
- Connect your Garmin watch to the computer using a USB cable.
- Open Garmin Express and select your device.
- Click on Wi-Fi Networks and add your WiFi credentials.
- Sync the settings and disconnect your watch.
- Restart your Garmin watch and try connecting to WiFi again.
Solution #4: Update Your Garmin Watch Firmware
If your Garmin watch is running outdated software, it may prevent WiFi from working properly.
Steps to update Garmin watch firmware:
- Open the Garmin Connect app on your smartphone.
- Check for any available firmware updates.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- Restart your watch after the update and try reconnecting to WiFi.
Conclusion
If you are unable to connect your Garmin watch to WiFi, it may be due to a few different reasons that we have covered in this guide.
The most common causes include unsupported WiFi frequencies, incorrect settings, or outdated firmware.
This is usually a minor issue that can be fixed manually in just a few minutes—no need to contact Garmin support.
Just follow the solutions in this guide carefully, and you should be able to connect your Garmin watch to WiFi in no time.
Additional Reading:
Can You Connect Garmin Watch To Strava?Â
How To Connect A Garmin Watch To A Phone
Can I Connect My Apple Watch To Garmin Connect?
Brianna is based in Minnesota in the US at the moment, and has been writing since 2017. She is currently a 3rd Year med student at the time of writing this.
