Are you addressing Wi-Fi problems on your Mac? You can find the solutions to the most common Wi-Fi problems here.
Don’t See a Wi-Fi Connection
Many users have reported they cannot connect to the Internet because of the Wi-Fi: not configured error. If you don’t see Wi-Fi on your Mac, you can configure it by rebooting your system, starting your Mac in Safe mode, or re-adding the Wi-Fi connector.
Wi-Fi is Slow
If your Wi-Fi connection has suddenly slowed down, it is likely that someone or something else is eating up your bandwidth. Check your computer first to ensure there are no irrelevant programs running in the background. Then, check how many devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
You can run a quick screen using Wi-Fi Explorer to figure out the culprit. The scan will show you the issues with your connection speed and fix them if required.
You can also fix the issue manually. Bandwidth is the volume of data transmitted over the Wi-Fi connection. Some apps require larger bandwidth and hence, restrict the data available to you for other tasks. So, check the active applications. Video-intensive applications, multiplayer video games, and large files that are downloading or uploading are some common offenders. Quit those programs and apps to restore your Wi-Fi connection.
If there are multiple people using the Wi-Fi network, you can ask them to limit which applications they use. Or you can ask them to disconnect for the time being and connect to the network once your work is done.
Wi-Fi is Spotty
Waves are transmitted by Wi-Fi routers. If these waves are weak at your location, you will face connection issues. So, even if you have managed to connect to the network, the connection will be spotty at best. This particularly happens when you are too far from the frequency.
This problem is fixed in two ways. First, try and move closer to the router. This is the simplest solution to the problem. Second, use a different frequency band than what you normally would. All routers use the 2.4GHz band by default, and this frequency band is weaker than 5GHz. If your router supports the 5GHz band, you must switch to it. If it doesn’t, you may need to upgrade your router.
You can also delete the Wi-Fi network from your Mac and then reconnect to the network. If you choose this route, ensure to remember the Wi-Fi password.
Mac Router Failure
So, if you have tried everything possible to fix Wi-Fi issues, but the problems persist, the Wi-Fi router might be at fault. This is not visible to the eye, and it may take some time to figure out what exactly is wrong.
But if you have rebooted your device, moved closer to the router, eliminated interferences, and changed the frequency band, the last step is to ensure the router is working perfectly.
You can fix this issue by turning off the Wi-Fi on your device from the menu bar. Then, turn off the router by disconnecting it physically from your computer or pressing the power button. Ensure all the lights are off.
Restart your Mac and turn the router back on, or physically connect the router to your computer. Wait for a few minutes for all the lights to come. Then, switch on your Mac’s Wi-Fi and let it connect to the network.
If your Internet works fine, you can continue with your task. If it doesn’t, you may have to reach out to a technician. If the router is faulty, then replace the router. Or you can contact your ISP to find out whether the issue is from their end. If the ISP’s server is down, you have to wait.
Router Interference
A router sends electronic waves, which might be impeded if you have thick walls or blockages like a row of metal cabinets.
If the router is buried behind a thick wall, metal cabinet, or closet, you must move the router to a more central and open location. If the router is in a clear area, try moving closer to the router to get a better connection.
Generally, removing interferences and minimizing the distance between your computer and router should solve the connection issues you are facing. If there’s no way to move closer to the router, you can purchase an extender. This will help reduce interferences and help the electronic waves to reach your device so your connection speed is unaffected.
The Bottom Line
Wi-Fi issues are highly unwanted and a major source of frustration. Unfortunately, these issues are common. Follow the solutions and suggestions mentioned above to sort out your Wi-Fi problems. Contact Apple support or your nearest Apple service center for further assistance.
What Wi-Fi issues did you face while working on your Mac? How did you solve them?
