What to Do If Your MacBook Is not Connecting to Wi-Fi

Different technical and software issues might be why your MacBook won’t connect to WiFi. Some of the primary factors contributing to the MacBook internet connection not working are:

Issues include broken routers and an obsolete macOS version.
Interference or error on one of the router channels.
Failure in TCP/IP, NVRAM/PRAM, and SMC settings.
Security programs disable the Wi-Fi network.
The distance between your MacBook and the router is too long.

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Ways to Fix MacBook Wi-Fi Connection

Remember that troubleshooting procedures may differ depending on the macOS version and MacBook model. Always back up your vital data before making any major system modifications.

Experiencing issues with your MacBook not connecting to Wi-Fi can be frustrating, but you can take several troubleshooting steps to address the problem. Here are ten ways to fix Wi-Fi connectivity issues on your MacBook.

1. Check if the network works correctly

The first step is to ensure that your Wi-Fi network works. An easy solution is to link other devices to it. If they connect, the fault is probably with your MacBook. If other devices cannot connect to the wireless internet, it is most likely due to Wi-Fi.

Restart the router: switch it off and back on after a minute.
Check that the cable is correctly attached, and test another one to determine whether the one you’re using is working.
If nothing else works, contact your ISP; there may be network issues on their end.

2. Check the network

A MacBook turned on for an extended period may initiate specific processes and conflict with your Wi-Fi connection. To scan a MacBook for Wi-Fi faults and determine whether Wi-Fi is enabled, choose the icon from the macOS menu. If turned on, the symbol will be arced; otherwise, it will be blank or have a slash across it.

If the network is not working, choose the Wi-Fi icon and click the switch. Your MacBook shows all possible connections and instantly connects to any previously connected ones. If no networks are displayed, choose one manually.

Another alternative is to try to join a network that is not your own. In this scenario, click the Wi-Fi symbol and choose your network from the selection.

3. Ensure the range is optimal

If your MacBook isn’t connecting to Wi-Fi, check that it isn’t too distant from the router. You should also avoid placing it behind thick walls; instead, position it in the center of your home or apartment.

Additionally, ensure that nothing interferes with the router’s functionality. Avoid placing it near electrical wires, cellphones, video cameras, microwave ovens, or other equipment that sends electrical impulses. Bluetooth’s signals conflict with Wi-Fi, so turning it off might assist in some circumstances.

4. Change the router channel

When the router connects to the Internet, it selects one of several channels. Occasionally, the present channel becomes congested or suffers from interference. Modifying it will help resolve the issue of the MacBook not connecting to Wi-Fi.

To change the channel, you need the router’s IP address. You can find it on the TCP/IP tab in the settings.

Copy and paste the IP address into the URL bar of your browser. This allows you to enter the router’s settings using your password. If you have forgotten your password and have not changed the default one, you can retrieve the normal one by conducting a Google search by router model.

Then, navigate to the Wi-Fi settings, locate the list of channels, and choose the one you wish to use.

5. Clear the memory

Consider deleting the network from your device’s memory. To accomplish this, go to your MacBook’s network settings and follow these steps:

Go to “System Settings”.
On the left side, select Wi-Fi, then “Advanced”.
Go through the list of networks and find your own.
Click “Advanced” and choose “Remove from list”.
Connect to Wi-Fi by clicking on the network symbol and selecting the appropriate network.

6. Check VPN

VPNs can occasionally fail by restricting traffic or forcing your MacBook to look for a Wi-Fi network with an incorrect IP address. Just turn it off and try connecting again.

Select “Network” under “System Settings”.
In the VPN menu, select the option to disable the service.

7. Check the DNS settings

DNS is used to link website domain names to IP addresses. Sometimes, changing DNS servers will help users connect to the Internet. If you have macOS Ventura installed on your MacBook, you must connect to a network to change the DNS server.

If successful, continue the following instructions:

Go to the Apple menu and choose “System Settings”.
Click Wi-Fi and then “More Info”.
Select DNS and click the + symbol to add a new address (e.g., Google, OpenDNS, Cloudflare).

For devices on macOS Monterey or earlier:

Press Cmd+Space, type Terminal, then press Return.
Enter network setup -set DNS servers Wi-Fi 8.8.8.8.8 into the command prompt.
If required, enter your password.

8. Fix the TCP/IP settings

TCP/IP settings control how your MacBook connects with other devices. Check the licensing conditions for DHCP, which assigns IP addresses.

Connect to the wireless network.
Click “Network” under “System Settings” and then “Wi-Fi”.
Open Network Information, then TCP/IP.
Select “Update DHCP License”.
Click on “Apply” and then OK.

9. Reset NVRAM/PRAM and SMC settings

To reset and restart NVRAM/PRAM (the memory region that stores settings):

Turn off your MacBook, then turn it back on immediately.
Press Option, Command, P, and R for 20 seconds until the device turns on and the Apple symbol appears.

The SMC is in charge of a variety of operations. Therefore, resetting the controller can occasionally fix wireless network connectivity difficulties, such as MacBook Wi-Fi issues.

Reset for a MacBook with Apple T2 (2018-20 models):

Turn off the smartphone and hold the power button for ten seconds.
If it doesn`t help, press Power, right Shift, left Option, and Control.
Hold the combination for around 7-8 seconds.
Restart your device.

On pre-2018 devices with non-removable batteries:

Turn off your MacBook, then hit the Option+Control+Shift keys on the left side.
Press the Power button.
After ten seconds, remove the keys and switch on the device.

Using a MacBook with a detachable battery:

Turn the laptop off.
Remove the battery.
Press the power button for 5 seconds.
Install the battery and start your MacBook.

10. Run total diagnostics

Start “Wireless Diagnostics” (Cmd + Spacebar). Follow the directions on the screen. When done, all failures will be documented in the logbook, which a technician may utilize later to troubleshoot Wi-Fi issues on the MacBook.