If the internet works fine on some apps but not on others, it can feel confusing and random. One app loads instantly, while another refuses to connect at all. This situation is very common and usually does not mean your phone or internet connection is broken. In most cases, the issue is related to how specific apps are allowed to access the network.
Below are the most common reasons this happens and what you can realistically do.
Reason 1: Background Data Restrictions for Specific Apps
Some apps are restricted from using mobile data or Wi-Fi in the background. When this happens, the app may fail to load unless it is actively open on your screen. This behavior is especially common after system updates or when data saving features are enabled.
What to do
- Open app settings and check data usage permissions
- Allow background data for the affected app
- Disable data saver mode temporarily
Reason 2: App Network Access Is Turned Off
Certain apps require explicit permission to access mobile data or Wi-Fi. If this permission is disabled, the app may appear broken while other apps work normally, even though your internet connection is active.
What to do
- Open app permissions in system settings
- Make sure network access is allowed
- Close the app completely and open it again after changing permissions
Reason 3: VPN or Private DNS Affects Only Some Apps
VPN apps or custom DNS settings may route traffic differently for each app. Some apps handle these network changes well, while others fail to connect or time out. This issue often looks similar to cases where your phone shows it is connected but has no internet access.
What to do
- Disable VPN temporarily and test the app
- Set Private DNS to automatic if it is manually configured
- Close the affected app completely and open it again
Reason 4: App Cache or Temporary Data Is Corrupted
If an app’s temporary data becomes corrupted, it may fail to connect even though the internet works normally in other apps. This can happen after updates or when the app has been used for a long time without being closed properly.
What to do
- Clear cache for the affected app
- Avoid clearing app data unless necessary
- Close the app completely and open it again
Reason 5: Server-Side Issues Affect Only Certain Apps
Sometimes the problem is not on your phone at all. The app’s servers may be down or temporarily unstable, while other online services continue to work without issues.
What to do
- Check if the app works on another device
- Wait a short time and try again
- Look for outage reports if the issue persists
Quick Checklist
- Check background data permissions for the app
- Confirm network permissions are enabled
- Disable VPN or custom DNS temporarily
- Clear app cache
- Test the app on another network
When This Is Normal and When It Is Not
If one app stops working briefly while others are fine, it is usually a temporary app or server issue. If the same apps fail repeatedly across different networks and days, reinstalling the app or contacting the app’s support may be necessary.