To enable JavaScript on an iPhone 11, open Settings, tap Apps > Safari, scroll to the bottom and tap Advanced, then turn on JavaScript. On iOS 17 and earlier, the path is Settings > Safari > Advanced. JavaScript is on by default, so if a website isn’t working, it’s worth checking whether it was turned off.
This setting only affects Safari and apps that use Safari’s web view. Here’s how to turn it on, what happens if it’s off, and what to check if websites still don’t work.
How to turn on JavaScript in Safari on iPhone 11
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Apps, then Safari. (On iOS 17 and earlier, tap Safari directly.)
- Scroll to the bottom and tap Advanced.
- Turn on the JavaScript switch (green).
Reload the website afterward by tapping the reload arrow in the address bar.
What happens when JavaScript is off?
- Menus, buttons, and forms may not work.
- Videos, maps, and shopping carts may not load.
- Some sites show a message asking you to enable JavaScript.
- Pages may load faster and show fewer ads, which is why some people turn it off.
For most people, leaving JavaScript on gives the best experience.
What about Chrome and other browsers on iPhone?
Chrome, Firefox, and Edge on iPhone don’t have a JavaScript switch. JavaScript is always on in those apps. If a site doesn’t work in them, the problem is usually something else, like a content blocker or an outdated app.
Website still not working? Try these fixes
- Turn off content blockers: In Safari, tap the aA or page menu button in the address bar and choose Turn Off Content Blockers.
- Check Screen Time restrictions: Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > App Store, Media, Web & Games > Web Content, and make sure sites aren’t limited.
- Clear website data: In Safari’s Advanced settings, tap Website Data, find the site, and swipe left to delete it.
- Try Private Browsing to rule out extensions or saved data.
- Update iOS in Settings > General > Software Update. The iPhone 11 supports the latest iOS versions.
Want it off instead? Here’s how to turn off JavaScript in Safari on iPhone.
Using a Mac? Here’s where the JavaScript setting is in Safari on a Mac.
Frequently asked questions
Is JavaScript on by default on iPhone?
Yes. It’s only off if you or someone else turned it off, or if a device management profile disabled it.
Is it safe to enable JavaScript?
Yes. Nearly every website relies on it, and Safari runs it in a protected environment. Keep iOS updated for the latest security fixes.
Can I turn off JavaScript for just one website?
Safari on iPhone doesn’t allow per-site JavaScript settings. It’s on or off for all sites.
Why is the JavaScript switch grayed out?
Your iPhone may be managed by a school or company profile that controls Safari settings. Check Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.