Method 1: Grant Local Network Access to Applications

When an app first attempts to access the local network, iOS displays a prompt:

"[AppName] would like to find and connect to devices on your local network. This app will be able to discover and communicate with devices on the networks you use."

If access was denied or if you need to verify permissions, follow these steps:

1.   Open Settings.

2.   Scroll down and find the appthat requires local network access.

3.   Tap on the app.

4.   Ensure that Local Network is toggled ON.

Alternative way to check all apps at once (iOS 16, 17, 18, 26):

1.   Open Settings.

2.   Go to Privacy & Security.

3.   Tap Local Network.

4.   You will see a list of all apps that have requested local network access.

5.   Ensure the required apps are enabled.

Reference:

• If an app would like to connect to devices on your local network

Method 2: Check Wi-Fi Network Settings

Some Wi-Fi configurations may prevent local network communication.

1.   Open Settings.

2.   Tap Wi-Fi.

3.   Find the connected network and tap the (i) button next to it.

4.   Check ifPrivate Wi-Fi Address is enabled.

-  If local communication issues persist, try disabling this setting temporarily.

5.   Ensure Limit IP Address Tracking is OFF, as it may interfere with local discovery.

Reference:

• About privacy and Location Services in iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS

Method 3: Check Firewall, VPN, or Proxy Settings

VPNs, firewalls, or proxy configurations can block local network traffic.

1.   Open Settings

2.   Go to General > VPN & Device Management.

3.   If a VPN is active, try temporarily disabling it to see if local network communication improves.

4.   If a Proxy is enabled:

-  Go to Wi-Fi.

-  Tap (i) next to the connected network.

-  Scroll down to HTTP Proxy and check if it's set to Manual or Auto.

-  If enabled, try setting it to Off temporarily.

Reference:

• View and edit your Access Point Name (APN) on your iPhone and iPad

Conclusion

After completing these steps, your application can:

• Discover other devices on the local network.
• Communicate without being blocked by iOS privacy settings.
• Work properly even when running in the background.