How to connect to a Wi-Fi network

You can use your computer or mobile device to work, get information online, chat with people or play games by connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
Below are instructions on how to connect to a Wi-Fi network if you have a Windows or macOS computer, smartphone, or tablet.

How to connect a computer to Wi-Fi

A wireless network adapter is required to connect a computer to a Wi-Fi network.
Although most laptops come with a built-in wireless network adapter, desktop computers often do not and must be purchased separately.

Windows

Click Network Connections on the Windows taskbar.
Select the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use in the pop-up window and click the Connect button.
You will be asked to enter the network security key or password if the Wi-Fi network is protected.
Click Next after entering the Wi-Fi security key.
Your device connects to the Wi-Fi network if the security key you entered is correct.

macOS

Depending on whether Wi-Fi is disabled or enabled, click the network icon in the macOS menu bar.
If Wi-Fi is disabled, select Turn on Wi-Fi from the menu that appears.
Select the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to from the same drop-down box.
You will be prompted for a password if the Wi-Fi network is protected or protected.
Click Join after entering your password.
Your computer connects to the Wi-Fi network if the password you entered is correct.

Connect your smartphone or tablet to the Internet using Wi-Fi

A built-in wireless network adapter is included in almost all smartphones and tablets, allowing you to connect to a Wi-Fi network practically anywhere.
Follow the instructions to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

Android tablet or smartphone

Swipe down from the top of the screen.
Place your finger on the Wi-Fi icon and keep it there.
Press and hold the Wi-Fi symbol icon until a screen with further Wi-Fi options appears.
Turn on Wi-Fi by tapping the Use Wi-Fi option.
Tap the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use from the list of Wi-Fi networks.
You will be prompted for a password if the Wi-Fi network is protected or protected.
Tap Join after entering your password.
Your device connects to the Wi-Fi network if the password you entered is correct.

Another way

Swipe up twice from the bottom of the phone and Settings will appear in the list of installed apps.
Select the Settings app from the menu.
Depending on your Android version and device type, tap Connections, Network & Internet, Wi-Fi, and or Wireless & networks.
Make sure the Wi-Fi switch is turned on.
Tap the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use from the list of Wi-Fi networks.
You will be prompted for a password if the Wi-Fi network is protected or protected.
Tap Connect after entering the password.
Your device connects to the Wi-Fi network if the password you entered is correct.

Apple’s iPhone or iPad

Swipe down from the top right corner of the screen.
Touch and hold the Wi-Fi icon until a screen with four to six icons appears.
The Wi-Fi Not Connected icon will turn blue and change to Wi-Fi Search if you tap it.
Press and hold the blue Wi-Fi search symbol until a list of available Wi-Fi networks appears.
The SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use should be tapped.
You will be prompted for a password if the Wi-Fi network is protected.
Tap Join after entering your password.
Your device connects to the Wi-Fi network if the password you entered is correct.

Another way

On your smartphone, open the Settings app.
Tap the Wi-Fi option on the settings screen.
Make sure the Wi-Fi switch is set to On on your iOS device.
Tap the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use in the Networks list.
You will be prompted for a password if the Wi-Fi network is protected.
Tap Join after entering your password.
Your device connects to the Wi-Fi network if the password you entered is correct.

I can’t detect a Wi-Fi network

The problem is generally one of the following if you can’t detect the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to.

The Wi-Fi network is out of range

Your computer may be out of the Wi-Fi signal range.
A Wi-Fi signal can only be sent a certain distance through a wireless router.
The SSID will not appear in the list of Wi-Fi networks if your computer is out of range.

The Wi-Fi network is hidden

Some individuals set their wireless router to mask the Wi-Fi network’s SSID for added security.
Select Secret network, Join another network, Other, or a similar option if you have permission to join a hidden Wi-Fi network and know the SSID.
When prompted, enter the SSID and Wi-Fi password to connect.