How to Connect an iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch to WiFi
Introduction
1 Credentials
- Wireless Network Name (SSID)
- Wireless Network Key (Password)
Finding Network Credentials
Most wireless routers or gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, check the documentation that came with your device.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.
? Do you know your Wireless Network name (SSID) and Key?
- Wireless Network Name (SSID)
- Wireless Network Key (Password)
Finding Network Credentials
Most wireless routers or gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, check the documentation that came with your device.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.
Depending on what iOS device (iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch) and which generation you have, the menu theme and options might look slightly different on your screen. However, the steps should be the same across all iOS devices and generations.
- Open Settings.
- Select Wi-Fi.
Next to the icon you will see one of following statuses:
- Off - Wi-Fi feature is disabled
- Not Connected - Wi-Fi connection is not established
- [Network Name] - Wi-Fi connection is established
- Make sure that the Wi-Fi feature is enabled by flipping the toggle switch to the On position.
- Your iOS device will automatically connect to the closest network you have connected to it in the past. The checkmark indicates you are connected.
To Connect to a New Network
If you're connecting to a Wi-Fi network for the first time:
- Select the Network Name from the list.
- Enter the Password if required then select Join.
To Connect to a Hidden Network
If the Wi-Fi network you wish to connect to is hidden, it won't appear in the list of available networks. However, if you know the network's exact name and password, it can be added manually.
- Select Other...
- Enter the Network Name, choose the Security type, enter the Password then select Join.
If other wireless devices are connected to the network and functioning properly, chances are the router is OK. It's possible there is an environmental issue. Do you have a portable wireless device (Smart Phone, Tablet, Laptop, etc.) that you can put in the same area to test and see if that device's wireless connection still functions as intended in that location?
If you haven't already, please try power cycling the device you're working with.
- Turn off your device.
- Wait ten seconds.
- Turn your device on again.
At this time, Apple has not indicated that there are any compatibility issues with specific models of networking equipment on the market. To ensure that your specific networking equipment and all settings will work properly with your iOS device, please reach out to the manufacturer directly for further assistance.
Some wireless routers broadcast a dual-band wireless signal and provide both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless networks. Your device may not see the 5GHz network, which is completely normal. Not all devices contain the antenna to communicate on the 5GHz band. Also, some routers broadcast guest networks that your device may not be able to connect to depending on your router's settings.
The device needs to be within a reasonable range of the router in order to connect and have the best connection speeds.
- In general, in most homes, you can be up to 30 feet from your router for a decent connection.
- From 30' to 50' away, the speeds will be slower, and may drop occasionally, but it should be usable.
- Greater than 50' away, and the signal will most likely be too weak to overcome interference. The speeds will be slow, and the connection may be sporadic.
The above numbers are approximates only. Optimal range may vary based on router make and model.
Your router may need to be relocated to a more centralized location in order to provide better coverage for all your devices.
Good Placement
Bad Placement
