Mac Won't Connect to WiFi — How to Fix It

A Mac that won't connect to WiFi or keeps dropping its connection is usually a network settings or configuration issue rather than a hardware fault.

Common causes:

Corrupted network configuration files
DNS settings misconfigured
macOS update reset network settings
WiFi router compatibility issue
Physical WiFi card fault

Turn WiFi off and on again

WiFi icon in menu bar → turn WiFi off. Wait 10 seconds. Turn WiFi on. Also restart the router.

Forget the network and rejoin

WiFi icon → WiFi Settings → click (i) next to your network → Forget This Network. Reconnect and enter the password.

Renew DHCP lease

System Settings → Network → WiFi → Details → TCP/IP tab → Renew DHCP Lease.

Change DNS servers

System Settings → Network → WiFi → Details → DNS tab. Remove existing servers. Add: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.

Delete WiFi configuration files

Finder → Go → Go to Folder → /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ → delete: com.apple.airport.preferences.plist, com.apple.network.identification.plist, NetworkInterfaces.plist, preferences.plist. Restart.

Create a new Network Location

System Settings → Network → Location dropdown → Edit Locations → + to add a new location. Creates a completely fresh network configuration.

When to call a technician

If none of the above resolves the issue, the Mac's WiFi card may be faulty. TechFix Pro diagnoses and repairs Mac WiFi issues on-site.

Call 0434 358 263 WhatsApp

Frequently asked questions

Why does my Mac keep disconnecting from WiFi?

Usually corrupted WiFi preference files or DHCP lease issues. Deleting the SystemConfiguration folder files and renewing the DHCP lease resolves most persistent disconnection.

Why does my Mac say connected but no internet?

DNS is not resolving or the router can't reach the internet. Try changing DNS to 8.8.8.8 and check if other devices also have no internet.

Does updating macOS fix WiFi problems?

Sometimes yes — major macOS versions occasionally have WiFi driver issues patched in subsequent updates.