Wi-Fi not workingMediumWi-fi not working on mac
What this error means
This means your Mac cannot connect to a wi-fi network, or it connects but cannot access the internet. You may see this when the Wi-Fi icon shows a warning, the network keeps dropping, pages will not load, or your Mac says it is connected but nothing works online.
Common causes
- 1The wi-fi network or router is offline or having a temporary fault
- 2Your Mac is connected to the wrong network or has a saved connection problem
- 3macOS network settings are temporarily stuck or outdated
- 4A recent update, app, or security setting is interfering with wi-fi
How to fix it
- Check whether the problem is only on your Mac. Try another device on the same wi-fi. If nothing can get online, the router or internet service is likely the issue.
- Turn wi-fi off and back on. On your Mac, click the wi-fi icon, switch wi-fi off, wait about 10 seconds, and switch it back on. Then try opening a website.
- Restart your Mac and router. Restart your Mac first. If other devices also cannot connect, unplug your router for about 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for the lights to settle.
- Forget the network and join again. Open your wi-fi settings, choose the network, remove it from saved networks if possible, then reconnect and enter the password again. This can fix a bad saved connection.
- Move closer to the router and test a different network. Weak signal, interference, or an issue with one network can make wi-fi appear broken. If possible, try a mobile hotspot or another trusted wi-fi network to see whether the problem follows your Mac.
- Install any pending macOS updates. Go to System Settings, then General, then Software Update, and install updates if available. Network fixes are often included in macOS updates.
- If the issue still continues, run a Quickfix scan or get help. A scan can check for common network and system issues. If your Mac still will not stay connected, contact support or an IT professional.
Recommended fixes
Run a Quickfix scan
- Open Quickfix AI and click Start scan.
- Choose the Quick or Advanced profile and let the scan finish.
- Review the highlighted issues and apply the recommended fixes.
Restart your device
A restart clears temporary state that often causes transient errors.
- Save your work and close open apps.
- Restart the device from the power menu.
- Reproduce the issue to check whether it persists.
Install macOS updates
- Open System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart if prompted.
Check your network connection
- Confirm other devices can reach the internet.
- Toggle Wi-Fi off and back on.
- Move closer to the router, or switch to a wired connection to rule out signal issues.
Restart your router
- Unplug the router (and modem).
- Wait 30 seconds, then plug them back in.
- Wait for all lights to stabilize before reconnecting.
Forget and rejoin the Wi-Fi network
- Open your Wi-Fi settings and select the network.
- Choose Forget this network.
- Reconnect and re-enter the password.
Contact Quickfix support
If the issue persists after trying these steps, reach out so we can help.
Visit the contact page and include your scan report code.
When to seek help
Seek professional help if your Mac cannot connect to any wi-fi network after restarting, forgetting the network, and updating macOS, or if other devices work normally but your Mac still does not. Get help sooner if the problem started after a system change and you also notice missing network settings, repeated disconnects, or other apps and devices behaving unusually.
Need more help?
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