iOS: Troubleshooting Wi-Fi networks and connections

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Occasionally while using your iOS device, you may notice unexpected Wi-Fi behavior, such as:

Difficulty locating or connecting to a network
Unexpected Wi-Fi signal strength or disconnects
Unable to access the Internet
Not automatically connecting to Wi-Fi when expected
Follow these steps to troubleshoot the above issues.

1. Be sure that you are in range of your Wi-Fi router (access point).
2. Tap Settings > Wi-Fi and turn Wi-Fi off and then on again.
3. If unable to do so, see this article.
4. Confirm that your Wi-Fi router and Cable or DSL modem are connected to power, turned on, and indicate that they are connected to the Internet.
5. If not, refer to your network administrator or ISP for assistance.
6. Restart your iOS device.
7. Tap Settings > Wi-Fi and locate the Wi-Fi network to which you are connected.
8. Then tap and Forget this Network.
9. Try to connect to your desired Wi-Fi network again.

Note: You will need to enter your Wi-Fi password again if your desired network requires one.

1. Turn your Wi-Fi router off and then on again2.
2. If your ISP also provides cable or phone service, check with them before attempting this step to avoid interruption of service.
3. Update your device to the latest version of software.
4. Update your Wi-Fi router to the latest firmware2.
5. For AirPort Base Stations, see this article for information about firmware updates.

If the issue is still unresolved
Follow the steps below for the issue you are experiencing.

1. Unable to locate a Wi-Fi network
2. Check to see if the network is available by tapping Settings > Wi-Fi and choosing from the available networks listed there.

Note: It may take a few seconds for the Wi-Fi network name to appear.

1. Move closer to your wireless router ( access point) and attempt to locate the Wi-Fi network again.
2. If you do not see the network you would like to join, you may be attempting to connect to a hidden network. Learn how to join a hidden network.
3. Supported Wi-Fi configurations vary by iOS device model. Find out which standards your device supports3.
4. Reset network settings by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings including: previously connected Wi-Fi networks and passwords, recently used Bluetooth accessories, VPN and APN settings.

Unable to connect to a Wi-Fi network

1. Verify that you are attempting to connect your desired Wi-Fi network.
2. Make sure you are entering your Wi-Fi password correctly.
3. Passwords may be case sensitive and may contain numbers or special characters.
4. Reset network settings by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings including: previously connected Wi-Fi networks and passwords, recently used Bluetooth accessories, VPN and APN settings.

1. Wi-Fi disconnects, or signal strength is less than expected
2. Move closer to the Wi-Fi router (access point).
3. Check for sources of potential interference.
4. Remove any case, stand, or other accessories from your iOS device and see if signal strength improves.
5. Reset network settings by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings including: previously connected Wi-Fi networks and passwords, recently used Bluetooth accessories, VPN and APN settings.

Unable to access the Internet while connected to Wi-Fi

If you are using a public or commercial network that requires a login or subscription.

Check to see if you have a self-assigned IP address:

1. Tap Settings > Wi-Fi and locate the Wi-Fi network to which you are connected. Then tap .
2. Check your IP address.
3. If you do not have a self-assigned IP address, see if other Wi-Fi devices on your network have Internet access.
4. If they do not, consult with your network administrator or ISP for further assistance.
5. If they do, reset network settings on your device by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings including: previously connected Wi-Fi networks and passwords, recently used Bluetooth accessories, VPN and APN settings.

Unable to automatically connect to Wi-Fi

1. Avoid giving your Wi-Fi network a common name.
2. Some wireless routers are preconfigured with a common SSID (network name) such as "wireless" or "default."
3. If your desired Wi-Fi network has a common SSID, try changing the SSID to something unique2.
4. If your desired Wi-Fi network has a unique SSID, reset network settings by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will reset all network settings including: previously connected Wi-Fi networks and passwords, recently used Bluetooth accessories, VPN and APN settings.

Additional Information

Find information on connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
Some third-party routers may not be compatible with all iOS devices, even after updating to the latest firmware. If your iOS devices can successfully connect to other Wi-Fi networks, contact your router's manufacturer to ensure that your router is compatible with your iOS device.
See recommended settings for configuring your Wi-Fi router for use with iOS devices.

Notes:

iOS devices sold in China may use the term Wireless LAN (WLAN) instead of Wi-Fi. Not all China iPhone models support WLAN; see this article for more information.
If needed, please consult with your network administrator (which may be your Internet Service Provider) for assistance with this step.
iPhone 5, iPad devices, and iPod touch (5th generation) are the only iOS devices that can connect to 5 GHz networks.