iPad won't connect to Wi-Fi? Here's what to do

If you can't connect your iPad® to Wi-Fi, you won't be able to stream a show, check email, or do any of the things you want and need to do. Fortunately, this is almost always an easy fix, and we'll walk you through it.

At Asurion, we find and fix any issue with your tech—fast. Whether it's securing your phone from hackers or finding a lost or stolen laptop, our experts can help. Here are simple steps to take when your iPad won't connect to Wi-Fi.

Move closer to your router

If your iPad is too far away from your router, the signal may not be strong enough for your device to connect to Wi-Fi. Make sure your router is turned on and try moving it closer to get your iPad online.

Make sure that Wi-Fi is on and that you can see your network

1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
2. Make sure that Wi-Fi is on (the switch will be green).
3. Tap the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to join. If there's a blue checkmark beside the network name, you're connected.
4. If you see Auto-Join disabled under your Wi-Fi network name, tap it to turn on Auto-Join.

Enter your Wi-Fi password

When trying to connect with a Wi-Fi network, you may be prompted to enter your password. Even if you enter it correctly, there's a chance an “unable to join the network" or “incorrect password" message may appear. If this happens, follow the steps in the Restart your iPad section.

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Check for Wi-Fi network issues

If iOS® or iPadOS® detects an issue with your Wi-Fi connection, you'll see a message (like “No Internet Connection") under the name of the Wi-Fi network that you're connected to. Tap the Wi-Fi network for more information.

You may also try connecting to a Wi-Fi network in a different part of your house or building. If your device still can't connect, you may need help with your network.

Tip: If you're connected to a Wi-Fi network but can't get online, try to connect using another device. If you can't get online with a different device, you may have a service outage. Call your internet provider for help.

Restart your iPad

If you still can't connect to your network or get online, try restarting your device.

To restart iPads with a Home button:

Press and hold the Top button until the power off slider appears onscreen, then drag the slider.

Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Top button to turn it on.

To restart iPads without a Home button:

1. Press and hold the Top button and one of the Volume buttons until the power off slider appears onscreen.
2. Drag the slider to turn your iPad off.
3. Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the Top button to turn it back on.

For more about simple restarts, check out our step-by-step guide to how to hard reset your iPad,

Restart your wireless router and modem

If your iPad didn't connect to Wi-Fi after you restarted your device, try restarting both your router and modem (sometimes they are two separate pieces, but often they are combined in one device). Here's how:

1. Make sure the router is connected to the modem and that your cables are plugged in securely.
2. Turn off the modem/router.
3. Wait 30 seconds, then press the Power button to restart the modem/router.

Tip: Make sure to update your Wi-Fi router with the latest firmware, and make sure that the router works with your iPad. Contact the router's manufacturer if you're not sure.

Check your network settings

If you still can't connect, try resetting your network settings.

For iOS or iPadOS 15® or later: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [Device] > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

For iOS or iPadOS 14® or earlier: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

Note: This will also reset your Wi-Fi networks and passwords, mobile network settings, and virtual private network (VPN) and access point name (APN) settings.

Update your software

A software update may solve any issues you're still having with connecting your iPad to Wi-Fi and prevent future problems. To download available updates:

Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Install Now.