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  • Question

    iPad Joining and troubleshooting Wi-Fi networks

    • Answer
    • Join the network

      Verify Wi-Fi is enabled and that you are connected to a Wi-Fi network.

      Tap Settings > Wi-Fi. If Wi-Fi is off, turn it on by tapping the on/off icon.

      Available Wi-Fi networks appears under "Choose a Network..."

      Locate and tap the Wi-Fi network you want to join.

      The Settings > Wi-Fi option opens Wi-Fi Networks panel, with a Wi-Fi on/off switch and a list of networks under 'Choose a network'
      Note: If the Wi-Fi network is not displayed on iPad as an available option, it may be a "closed" or "private" network. This requires entering the name to join. See this article for more information.

      Verify password

      Some Wi-Fi networks require a password to join. Password-protected Wi-Fi networks are indicated by the padlock icon Padlock icon . If you receive an error while joining a password-protected Wi-Fi network:

      • Type slowly to verify you are entering the correct password.
      • If you cannot tap Join, the password is too short for that Wi-Fi network.
      • If you don't know the password, check with the Wi-Fi network administrator.


      Password-protected Wi-Fi networks padlock icon
      Note: Some Wi-Fi access points or routers may have default passwords. Check the manufacturer's website for more information.

      Check connection

      Check the Wi-Fi signal strength in the status bar or Wi-Fi menu. The more bars the stronger the signalWi-Fi signal strength indicator .

      If you only have a single bar or you still cannot locate your Wi-Fi network:
      • Move closer to the Wi-Fi access point or router.
      • Avoid potential sources of interference that can affect a Wi-Fi signal, such as concrete walls and microwave ovens.

      Next, check your connection by using Safari to open a web page.

      When using some public Wi-Fi networks, Safari may display a web page that allows you to sign in to use the service. Check this web page for additional information on signing into or subscribing to the Wi-Fi network service at that location.

      Wi-Fi signal stength indicator
      See this article for more information about using public Wi-Fi networks that require a subscription.

      Check the Wi-Fi network

      If you have a strong Wi-Fi signal, but still can't access the Internet, verify the Wi-Fi network you are using.

      • Ensure you are connecting to the correct Wi-Fi network, and not another nearby Wi-Fi network.
      • Check the cable connection to your Wi-Fi access point or router.
      • If you can't identify your Wi-Fi network due to other networks with similar names nearby, contact the ISP or manufacturer for assistance in naming your Wi-Fi network.

      Reset network settings

      To reset your network settings, tap Settings > General, then tap Reset > Reset Network Settings.

      When the device restarts, try to locate and join the Wi-Fi network again.

      Settings icon

      Note: This will clear your current network settings, including saved networks, Wi-Fi passwords, and VPN settings.

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    • View Answer at http://www.apple.com/support/ipad/assistant/wifi/#section_1
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