The Apple macOS Blog

MacBook Wi-Fi Connection Troubleshooting

Published: 7th of January, 2025 at 09:14am (AEST)

Authored by Maria
Maria Garner
Adventurer and Mac specialist

Having trouble connecting your MacBook to Wi-Fi?This common issue can be frustrating, but not to worry because today's blog is fully of simple solutions that can get you back online in no time!


macOS blog imageA rendition of me doing the crazy eyes because Wifi is down, again!


So why isn't your MacBook connecting to Wi-Fi?

There could be several reasons:

  1. Router problems
  2. Internet service provider issues
  3. MacBook software glitches

Let's look at some quick fixes and solve your connection troubles!


9 Easy steps to solving Mac Wi-Fi woes

1. Restart your MacBook and routerSometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Give both your MacBook and router a quick restart to see if that resolves the issue.

2. Check other Wi-Fi networksTry connecting to a different network. If you can, the problem might be with your internet provider. If not, move on to the next step.

3. Forget and rejoin your Wi-Fi networkHere's how to do it:

  • Go to Apple menu > System Settings > Network
  • Select Wi-Fi and click Advanced
  • Find your network, click the ellipsis button, and choose Remove
  • Reconnect to your network and test


4. Update your MacBook software

Keeping your Mac up-to-date can solve many issues, try to connect to the Internet at a friend's house or directly to your router with a wired network adaptor (don't worry these are inexpensive):

  • Apple menu > About This Mac > More Info > Software Update
  • If an update is available, click Update Now


5. Unplug USB accessories

USB devices can sometimes interfere with Wi-Fi. Disconnect all USB accessories and restart your MacBook to see if that helps.

6. Use Apple Wireless Diagnostics

This built-in tool can help identify Wi-Fi issues:

  • Open Wireless Diagnostics via Spotlight Search
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to run the diagnostic


7. Run maintenance scripts

Regular maintenance can prevent many Mac issues. Consider using a trusted Mac utility app like iBoostUp to run maintenance scripts, free up RAM, and flush the DNS cache.

8. Renew your DHCP lease

Here's how:

  • Apple Menu > System Settings > Network > Wi-Fi
  • Choose your network and click Details
  • Click the TCP/IP tab and select Renew DHCP Lease


9. Verify date and time settings

Incorrect date and time settings can cause connection problems. It's all a little bit complicated was to why, I'll let Charlie explain it all in another blog post later. Either way you should:

  • Apple Menu > System Settings > General > Date & Time
  • Make sure your settings are correct

By following these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to resolve most MacBook Wi-Fi connection issues. If you're still having trouble consider reaching out to Apple Support for further assistance.

Hope this helped and happy browsing!

❤️ Maria

 

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