Mac: Wi-Fi keeps dropping or will not connect
When the Wi-Fi on your Mac stops working, the fault is often with the router or the connection, not the Mac itself. These steps help you find out which.
Check other devices
Does your phone connect to the same Wi-Fi and load web pages? If not, the problem is the router or your broadband. Switch the router off, wait 30 seconds, then switch it on again and wait five minutes.
Check Wi-Fi is on
Click the Wi-Fi symbol at the top right of your screen. Make sure the switch is on and your network name is selected. If there is no Wi-Fi symbol, open System Settings and choose Wi-Fi.
Try these steps in order
- Switch Wi-Fi off, wait 10 seconds, then switch it on again.
- Restart your Mac.
- Move closer to the router. Thick walls and distance weaken the signal.
- If it says the password is wrong, open System Settings, then Wi-Fi, click Details next to your network, and choose Forget This Network. Then pick it again and re-enter the password carefully.
Only forget a network if you know the password. It is on the sticker on most routers.
Check for updates
Go to System Settings, General, then Software Update. Updates sometimes fix Wi-Fi bugs.
Use the built-in checker
Hold down the Option key and click the Wi-Fi symbol. Choose Open Wireless Diagnostics and follow the on-screen steps. This gives a report you can show us.
When to get more help
Contact us if only your Mac has the problem while other devices work fine, if the Wi-Fi drops many times a day, or if the router needs frequent restarts. Our team can check your router, your settings and your Mac to find the cause.