Why Does It Say Server Unreachable When I Call Someone?

Seeing a "server unreachable" error message when calling someone is frustrating, especially if the call is urgent. It delays your communication plan and can create confusion.
So, what does server unreachable mean when making a call? Server unreachable indicates that your device cannot connect to the network responsible for handling your call. This may happen due to network issues, incorrect settings, or problems with your service provider.
In this guide, we’ll cover the causes of the server errors and provide troubleshooting steps to resolve them.
Key Highlights:
- "Server Unreachable" error occurs when your phone can't connect to the network server.
- Common causes include network issues, server outages, misconfigured settings, firewall restrictions, and carrier routing problems.
- Restarting your device, updating software, and resetting network settings are effective troubleshooting steps for server-unavailability issues.
- To prevent future issues, update your software, configure IP settings properly, and use stable, high-speed internet connections to avoid errors.
- If troubleshooting doesn’t work for server issues, contact your service provider for further assistance.
What Does It Mean By ‘Server Unreachable’ When Calling?
A"server unreachable " means your device cannot connect to the carrier network. It represents a breakdown between your mobile device and the network server, which prevents the call initiation and causes the call drops.
Both cellular networks and VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) services like Zoom, Skype, and WhatsApp can experience this problem, but identifying the root cause makes it easier to resolve.
Reason Why You See Server Unreachable When Calling Someone
Server unreachable issues commonly occur due to network issues, server downtime, incorrect settings, firewall restrictions, carrier routing problems, or software glitches. However, sometimes misconfigured VoIP credentials or blocked ports can also be the causes.
1. Network Connectivity Issues
A weak internet connection or unstable mobile signal can prevent your device from reaching the server, especially when using VoIP services. If the person you are calling is on an unreachable network or experiencing technical issues, the call may fail from their end as well.
2. Issue in Server Infrastructure
The server may be down due to maintenance, overload, or unexpected outages. Especially during peak hours, you might experience temporary server unavailability because of technical difficulties on the provider's side.
3. Configuration Issues
Incorrect settings on your device or VoIP program may prevent your network from accessing the server. Misconfigured network settings, such as wrong IP addresses or enabled DNS settings, can block your device from reaching the call server.
Likewise, while making VoIP calls, the server may not respond if your SIP credentials (login details for VoIP services) are incorrect.
4. Firewall or Security Settings
Incorrect firewall settings on your device can block incoming traffic from reaching the server, resulting in an unreachable server error. Also, public or business Wi-Fi using security policies often block certain ports or protocols necessary for VoIP traffic, like SIP or RTP (Real-Time Protocol), causing call failures.
For instance, VoIP calls commonly use SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) on port 5060, but some networks restrict it.
5. Carrier or Routing Issues
If the person you’re calling transfers the number to a different carrier using the number porting service, the call might fail due to temporary routing delays during the porting process. As it can take some time for networks to update and properly route calls to the new carrier, this may result in a server being unreachable.
6. App or System Error
Sometimes, the server-unavailable problem is caused by a bug or glitch in the operating system or a calling application on your phone. Additionally, outdated apps can cause server incompatibilities and fail call attempts.
How to Fix “Server Unreachable” Phone Call Issue?
To fix the "server unreachable" issue, check your network connection, restart your device, verify your service provider’s status, and ensure your call settings are correct. If the problem continues, test with another device and contact customer support for further assistance.
1. Check Your Network Connection
Verify your signal strength or switch to a different network with high bandwidth to prevent the unreachable server by ensuring a stable connection. Furthermore, ensure to turn off your device’s Airplane Mode, as it disables all network connections.
2. Restart Your Device
You can fix small issues that affect server connectivity by restarting your phone. To do this, just switch off your device, wait for a short time, and then turn it back on. Restart acts as a quick reboot, which fixes minor and temporary server issues.
3. Check Service Provider Status
Regularly checking your service provider status allows you to identify potential server issues from the provider's side. If you’re facing a persistent problem, visit your provider's website, their social media support, or contact customer service for assistance.
4. Verify your Call Setting
Make sure you are logged in and that your app settings are set up correctly if you are using a VoIP phone system. For traditional phone networks, verify that your carrier settings are up to date by visiting your phone's settings or contacting your service provider.
5. Update Your Software and Apps
Updating VoIP or calling apps you are using resolves the compatibility issues resulting from outdated programs or operating systems. So, regularly look for software updates in your device's settings and keep everything up-to-date.
6. Check for Blocked Numbers
If you are having trouble reaching the specific phone number, ensure that you have not accidentally blocked that number. Check the call blocking list in your call settings to eliminate any unintended restrictions.
7. Reinsert SIM Card
A loose or improperly inserted SIM card may cause network connectivity issues. Remove your SIM card, clean it if it's dusty, and check for any damage. If it's broken, replace it with a new one. Then, reinsert it properly and restart your phone to ensure smooth internet and data connectivity.
8. Reset Network Settings
If network-related issues persist, resetting your network settings can help. It minimizes server connectivity glitches like IP duplication and restores the device network to a clean state.
Follow the steps below to reset your phone's network settings.
- On iOS: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- On Android: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.
Note: Resetting Network settings will erase saved Wi-Fi networks, VPN configurations, and other network-related settings, so you’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi manually afterward.
9. Test with Another Device
To determine whether the issue is with the network or your device, try calling from a different phone on the same network. If the other device can make calls without any issues, your phone's hardware, software, or settings may be the problem.
10. Contact Customer Support
If none of the above solutions resolves the issue, contact the service provider for help. They can look for network issues and assist you with other troubleshooting methods.
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Best Practices to Avoid Server Unreachable Issues in the Future
- Regularly update your device’s software and apps to avoid compatibility issues.
- Verify your IP settings and credentials to ensure proper configuration.
- Avoid using public or restricted Wi-Fi networks for VoIP calls.
- Keep your device free of unnecessary background applications that may interfere with network performance.
- Ensure a stable and strong cell network or internet connection (for VoIP calls).
Conclusion
Server unreachable warning results from incorrect settings, server outages, or network issues. Simple troubleshooting steps like rebooting your phone, verifying your internet connection, or changing your settings can resolve the issue. However, for more complex issues, it's best to consult your service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my phone saying the server is unreachable?
Your phone is saying the server is unreachable because it cannot connect with your carrier. Poor internet access, server outages, incorrect call settings, or issues with VoIP configuration usually cause it.
How to solve server problems?
To fix a server problem, check your internet connection, ensure your carrier or VoIP settings are correctly configured, reset your network settings, and update your software.
Does server unreachable mean I'm blocked?
No, server unreachable typically indicates a problem with the network or connection. If you are blocked, your call may ring once, go directly to voicemail, or you’ll hear the tone indicating that the number is unavailable.
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