How to Fix the ‘Cannot Connect to App Store’ Error on Your iPhone

The “Cannot Connect to App Store” error pops up and stops you from downloading or updating apps, even if your internet works with other apps. This happens when your device can’t make a secure connection with Apple’s App Store servers, usually failing during security checks.

The main reason is often that your device’s date and time are set incorrectly, which confuses Apple’s security checks. Other possible causes include network problems, issues with VPNs, using an old version of iOS, or a corrupted App Store cache.

Quick Fixes

Before moving on to more advanced troubleshooting, try these quick fixes. They often solve the ‘Cannot connect to App Store’ problem right away:

• Make sure your internet connection is active and stable. If you’re on Wi-Fi, try restarting your router. If you’re using mobile data, turn it off and back on. If you still have issues, consider contacting your internet or mobile service provider.
• If the internet seems fine but the App Store isn’t working, check if another device on the same network can connect to the App Store. If other devices work but your iPhone doesn’t, you might need to reset your network settings (see solution #6 below).
• Completely close the App Store app and then open it again. Sometimes a fresh start can solve connection problems.
• Restart your iPhone. A simple restart often clears up minor issues that could be affecting connectivity.
• Check if the App Store is down by visiting Apple’s system status page. If there’s a widespread outage, Apple will post updates. You can also follow the official App Store Twitter page for information. If it’s an Apple-side issue, all you can do is wait for them to fix it.

  

If these basic steps didn’t work, proceed to the detailed solutions below.

1. Keep Your iPhone Up to Date

If your iPhone is running an outdated version of iOS, it could be the reason for the ‘Cannot connect to App Store’ error. Newer updates often fix bugs, so updating your iPhone might solve the problem.

1. Open Settings > General > Software Update.
2. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

   

After updating, check if you can connect to the App Store. If not, keep going with the next steps.

2. Check if the Date and Time Are Correct

If your iPhone’s date and time are wrong, it can stop you from connecting to the App Store.

1. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time.
2. Turn off Set Automatically and manually set the correct date and time for your location. Then, turn Set Automatically back on.

   

This often fixes App Store connection issues if the problem was caused by incorrect settings.

3. Turn Off VPN

Using a VPN can sometimes interfere with the App Store, especially if the VPN’s location doesn’t match your usual App Store region. Try disconnecting your VPN.

1. Open Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
2. Tap on VPN and turn it OFF.

   

4. Clear the App Store Cache

Sometimes, a full or corrupted cache can cause issues. Refreshing the App Store’s cache might help.

1. Open the App Store app.
2. Tap any one of the bottom tabs (such as Today or Apps) quickly 10 times in a row. This trick refreshes the App Store and can clear up connection problems.

   

5. Turn On Your Location

Location services can affect app availability and the App Store’s ability to connect. If they are off, try turning them on.

1. Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
2. Switch Location Services to ON.

   

6. Reset Network Settings

If there’s a network problem, resetting your network settings could solve it. Be aware: This will erase your saved Wi-Fi networks, passwords, and any VPN or APN settings you have.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Reset, then choose Reset Network Settings.

   

7. Sign in Again with Your Apple ID

Sometimes logging out and back in with your Apple ID can fix App Store problems.

1. In Settings, tap your name (Apple ID) at the top, then select Sign Out.
2. Sign back in using your Apple ID credentials. If you forgot your password, reset it using Apple’s password reset page.

   

8. Reset Your iPhone

If nothing has worked so far, as a last resort, you can do a factory reset. This step will erase all content and settings, so make sure to back up your iPhone first.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Select Erase All Content and Settings.

   

If you’ve tried every solution on this list and still can’t connect to the App Store, it may be time to contact Apple customer support for professional assistance.