Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

If your iPhone or iPad won’t connect to Wi-Fi, first check its Wi-Fi and Airplane Mode settings. Then test another device on the same network and try your Apple device on a different Wi-Fi network. Those comparisons help show whether the problem is with the device, the router or the internet service. Leave Reset Network Settings until other fixes fail because it removes saved network and related settings.

Check Wi-Fi and Airplane Mode on your iPhone or iPad

  1. Open Settings > Wi-Fi and make sure Wi-Fi is on.

  2. Tap the network you want to join. A blue checkmark beside its name indicates that the device has joined; the Wi-Fi icon in the status area also indicates a connection. If prompted, enter the password or complete any sign-in or terms-and-conditions page. If you do not know the password, ask the network administrator.

  3. Make sure Airplane Mode is off. Apple also advises checking that Wi-Fi Assist is off; the label for the related setting may differ by region. Apple’s guidance in Australia calls it Connectivity Assist.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  4. If the Wi-Fi setting is dimmed or greyed out, restart the device and check again.

    #1 Best Overall
    TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC - USB Wireless Adapter for PC
    • 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 – This compact USB Wi-Fi adapter provides long-range and lag-free connections wherever you are. Upgrade your PCs or laptops to 802.11ac standards which are three times faster than wireless N speeds.
    • 𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐚𝐠 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 – Get Wi-Fi speeds up to 200 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 433 Mbps on the 5 GHz band for upgraded web surfing, gaming, and streaming. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls.
    • 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥-𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝟐.𝟒 𝐆𝐇𝐳 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝟓 𝐆𝐇𝐳 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 – Dual-bands provide flexible connectivity, giving your devices access to the latest routers for faster speeds and extended range. Wireless Security - WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK
    • 𝟓𝐝𝐁𝐢 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐆𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐚 – The high gain antenna of the Archer T2U Plus greatly enhances the reception and transmission of WiFi signal strengths.
    • 𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞, 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐚: Rotate the multi-directional antenna to face your router to improve your experience and performance

Joining Wi-Fi does not always mean the internet is working. If the device says “No Internet Connection,” continue with the network checks below. See Apple’s instructions for connecting to Wi-Fi on an iPhone or iPad.

Check whether VPN or security software is interfering

If you have VPN or security software installed, use removal as a diagnostic test rather than assuming it is the cause. Apple’s recommended sequence is to uninstall the software, restart the device and test Wi-Fi. If the connection works afterward and you need the software, contact its provider or VPN manager for help restoring it without the problem.

Follow Apple’s Wi-Fi troubleshooting guidance for this test.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Compare the device with other devices and Wi-Fi networks

  • Other devices also fail on this Wi-Fi: The issue may be with the router, internet service or network settings rather than just your iPhone or iPad.

    Rank #2
    Sale
    Jemluse Wireless CarPlay Adapter for Apple iPhone (Gray)
    • The Ultimate Smarter Copilot: Stay on Top of Your Driving- The 3A magic link CarPlay box control everything with a word, Or a touch, Or a twist. Save your 40% of time by quick auto conn and seamless operation, such as navigation, music playing, Siri assistant, phone calls, radio etc(Our Carplay Only Compatible with wired Apple CarPlay Car systems)
    • Uncompromisingly 7A Microchip Tech: Help You Focus on Driving- With 5.8 GHZ WiFi, 5.3 Bluetooth and 8-core processor for CarPlay genius makes transmission rate by up 40%, you can 10X faster than other car play take google maps, media, and messaging apps to car display. Unique black 7A chip keeps excellent performance in Anti-Oxidant, hardness, corrosion, and Temperature tests (-20°C to 70°C). No worry about disconnect during a long driving
    • 5.0 Premium Ultra-light Al alloy Dongle: Compact and Durable- Our cables and metal boxes that have withstood 50,000+ tests, last 3× longer than plastic receiver. Also, special material car adapter enhanced the heat dissipation
    • Serious Power, Serious Value: Designer Box with Stylish- All eye on classic & sleek exterior. Instant plug and play, fast auto-connect, online upgrades, sophisticated UI design ensure smoothly while driving, that for all factory OEM Wired Car. No need dash mount, even if your cell phone is in your pocket, it works
    • No Risk to Try: Any problem, 365 days of No Worry. Do solve your troubles within HOUR
  • Your iPhone or iPad works on another Wi-Fi network: The original network is the likely focus. If it is a school, workplace or public network, ask its administrator for help.

  • The network name does not appear: The network may be hidden, may restrict unapproved devices, or may not meet Apple’s recommendations. Contact the administrator or ISP if you do not manage the network.

  • No Wi-Fi network works on the device: Continue through the device-level steps below; if it still cannot connect anywhere, contact Apple Support.

    Free tools Windows power users keep installed

    One-click scans. No signup required.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

These comparisons narrow the fault, but a single failed connection does not establish that the device or router is defective.

Rank #3
Sale
UGREEN USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Plug and Play 1Gbps Aluminum Adapter
  • USB-C Meets 1000Mbps Ethernet in Seconds:UGREEN usb c to ethernet adapter supports fast speeds up to 1000Mbps and is backward compatible with 100/10Mbps network. Perfect for work, gaming, streaming, or downloading with a stable, reliable wired connection
  • Extend a Ethernet Port for Your Device:This ethernet to usb c adds a Gigabit RJ45 port to your device. It’s the perfect solution for new laptops without built-in Ethernet, devices with damaged LAN ports, or when WiFi is unavailable or unstable
  • Plug and Play: This Ethernet adapter is driver-free for Windows 11/10/8.1/8, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android. Drivers are required for Windows XP/7/Vista and Linux, and can be easily installed using our instructions. LED indicator shows status at a glance
  • Small Adapter, Big Attention to Detail: The usb c to ethernet features a durable aluminum alloy case for faster heat dissipation than plastic. Its reinforced cable tail and wear-resistant port ensure long-lasting durability. Compact size and easy to carry
  • Widely Compatible: The usbc to ethernet adapter is compatible with most laptops, tablets, smartphones, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 port, like MacBook Pro/Air, XPS, iPhone 17/16/15 Pro/Pro Max, Mac Mini, Chromebook, iPad

Check the router and network

  • Confirm the router is powered on and the iPhone or iPad is within range.

  • Check whether other devices can connect, and install router firmware updates if available.

  • Confirm the router is compatible with the Apple device. If it offers separate Wi-Fi bands, try another supported frequency; Apple gives 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz as examples.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • Restart the router and cable modem by unplugging them, then reconnecting them. Wait for the network to come back before testing again.

    Rank #4
    Sale
    JOETIEW Wireless CarPlay Adapter for iPhone, 5.8GHz WiFi Bluetooth 5.3 Fast Auto Connect Dongle, USB A/C Dual Port Mini Metal Shell, Plug & Play Compatible with Factory Wired CarPlay Cars
    • 【Small & Slim CarPlay Wireless Adapter】Easily transform wired OEM CarPlay to wireless! Supports GPS navigation, music playing, Siri assistant, phone calls, text messaging, etc. Enjoy full Carplay App and keep original car operation. No more tangled cables, leaving your car cleaner and embracing the convenience of wireless Car Play Digital Media — just pure driving bliss.
    • 【Universal Compatibility】Our USB Digital Media adapter is compatible with over 800+ vehicle models and is the upgrade for wireless Receivers featuring factory-wired CarPlay. It supports iPhone 6 and later models running iOS 10 or above. (ONLY designed for cars equipped with wired Apple Carplay, not with any other system)
    • 【Ultra-Fast 5-Second Auto Connection】 Powered by an upgraded smart chip, this adapter detects your iPhone within 5 seconds after starting the engine. Once paired, it auto-connects every time, making sure your music and GPS are ready instantly. (Before Connecting: 1Disconnect your iPhone from the car’s original Bluetooth system. 2.Make sure only ONE phone has Bluetooth turned on. 3.Turn off Personal Hotspot on your iPhone)
    • 【Plug & Play, Tiny but Mighty】No apps, no complicated setup. Simply plug this small & slim adapter into your car’s USB port, then pair with your iPhone via Bluetooth once. It will automatically reconnect every time you drive. The ultra-compact design stays hidden and won’t block other ports or cup holders. Your car interior remains neat, and the adapter is so light you’ll forget it’s there — but you’ll never want to drive without it.
    • 【Stable, Low-Latency Performance】Equipped with a premium 5.8GHz WiFi chip and advanced signal processing, this wireless CarPlay adapter delivers smooth GPS, skip-free music, and clear calls without annoying delays. No need to worry about frequent disconnections or stuttering.

If these checks point to a router problem, they do not by themselves mean you need a replacement. Consider one only if the existing router is shown to be incompatible, obsolete or faulty; Apple’s cited guidance does not endorse a specific model.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Reset network settings only after other fixes fail

Apple says: “Reset network settings only if other solutions fail.” Before proceeding, note that this removes saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, mobile settings, and VPN and APN settings. If this is a school or work device or uses a managed network, check with your administrator or IT team first.

  1. Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [device] > Reset.

    Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  2. Tap Reset Network Settings and confirm the reset.

  3. Reconnect to Wi-Fi by selecting the network and entering its password again if requested.

    Best Value
    BENFEI USB-C to Ethernet Adapter, USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 3/4) to RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Adapter Compatible with iPhone 15 Pro/Max, MacBook Pro/Air 2023, iPad Pro,iMac, S23, XPS 17 and More
    • 【Reliable & Endurance Connectivity】Designed specifically for plug-and-play connection between USB-C devices and wired network, provides gigabit ethernet connectivity even when wireless connectivity is Inconsistent or over extended.
    • 【Surfing at Full Speed】Obtain stable connection speeds up to 1Gbps; downward compatible with 100Mbps/10Mbps networks. Our Type-C to LAN Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) Network Adapter supports large downloads at maximum speeds without interruption.✅ To reach 1Gbps, make sure to use CAT6 & up Ethernet cables.
    • 【Compact & Friendly Design】Compact and lightweight, with a user-friendly non-slip design for easier plug and unplug. Braided nylon cable for extra durability. Premium aluminum casing for better heat insulation. Fits snugly with the USB-C ports on your devices, better signal transfer protection.
    • 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15 Series, MacBook Pro 16''/15” (2023/2022/2021/2020/2019/2018/2017), MacBook (2019/2018/2017), MacBook Air 13” (2022/2018), iPad Pro (2022/2020/2018); XPS 13/15/17; Surface Book 2; Google Pixelbook, Chromebook, Pixel, Pixel 2; Asus ZenBook. Compatible with Samsung S20/S10/S9/S8/S8+, Note 8/9, Galaxy Tablet Tab A 10.5, and many other USB-C laptops, tablets, and smartphones. (NOT compatible with Nintendo Switch.)
    • 【18 MONTH WARRANTY】: Exclusive BENFEI Unconditional 18-month Warranty ensures long-time satisfaction of your purchase; Friendly and easy-to-reach customer service to solve your problems timely

The menu uses the device name in the Transfer or Reset section. Apple provides the reset instruction in its Wi-Fi troubleshooting article.

Know when to contact your ISP or Apple

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.