WiFi problems can be incredibly frustrating, especially when your MacBook refuses to connect while your phone, tablet, and other devices work just fine. If you’re facing the “MacBook won’t connect to WiFi but other devices will” issue, you’re not alone.
This guide will walk you through all the possible reasons and step-by-step solutions to get your MacBook back online quickly.
Common Causes of MacBook WiFi Connection Problems
Incorrect WiFi Settings
Sometimes your MacBook settings might have saved wrong information about your WiFi network, causing connection errors.
Outdated macOS Version
If your MacBook’s macOS is outdated, it might not work properly with your WiFi router or newer security protocols.
Network Preferences Conflicts
Corrupt network files or mismatched network priorities can interfere with your WiFi connection.
Hardware Problems
Less commonly, there might be issues with your MacBook’s WiFi hardware like the AirPort card or antennas.
First Things to Check When MacBook Won’t Connect
Restart Your MacBook
Sometimes a simple reboot solves a lot of connectivity problems by resetting temporary glitches.
- Click the Apple Menu → Restart
After rebooting, try connecting again.
Forget and Reconnect to the WiFi Network
If your MacBook remembers an old or corrupted network connection:
- Go to System Settings → WiFi
- Click on your network → Forget This Network
- Reconnect by entering the password again
This clears any stored errors and starts fresh.
Check if WiFi is Actually Enabled
It might sound basic, but make sure your WiFi is turned on.
You can quickly check from the menu bar or in System Settings → WiFi.
Advanced Solutions to Fix MacBook WiFi Problems
Renew DHCP Lease
If your MacBook struggles to get an IP address, renewing the DHCP lease can help:
- Go to System Settings → Network → WiFi → Details
- Click “Renew DHCP Lease” under the TCP/IP tab
This resets your connection to the router.
Reset Network Settings
For deeper issues:
- Go to System Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Reset Network Settings
This deletes all saved networks, VPNs, and custom settings, giving you a clean slate.
Change DNS Servers
Sometimes a bad DNS server causes connection failures. Switch to Google’s public DNS:
- Go to System Settings → Network → WiFi → Details → DNS
- Add 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
This can make your connection faster and more reliable too.
Check Date and Time Settings
Incorrect date and time settings can block WiFi access, especially on secure networks.
- Go to System Settings → General → Date & Time
- Enable “Set date and time automatically”
Now reconnect to WiFi.
Special Cases: MacBook Won’t Connect to Certain Networks
MacBook Connects at Home but Not at Work
Work or public networks often have advanced security settings.
Check with your IT administrator for a compatible password, required certificates, or specific device registration.
MacBook Won’t Connect After macOS Update
Major macOS updates sometimes mess with saved network profiles.
If this happens, delete old network profiles and reconnect manually.
- Forget the network and add it back
- Reset the SMC and NVRAM (see below)
Resetting MacBook SMC and NVRAM to Fix WiFi
Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) and NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) often fixes deeper WiFi glitches.
How to Reset NVRAM
- Shut down your MacBook
- Turn it on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R
- Hold for about 20 seconds, then release
This resets network settings stored in NVRAM.
How to Reset SMC (for Intel-based MacBooks)
- Shut down your MacBook
- Press and hold Shift + Control + Option + Power button for 10 seconds
- Release all keys, then turn your MacBook back on
For M1 and M2 MacBooks, SMC resets automatically during reboot.
When to Suspect Hardware Problems
If none of the software solutions work, the WiFi chip or antenna in your MacBook might be faulty.
You can check by:
- Booting into Safe Mode (hold Shift at startup) and trying to connect
- Connecting to a mobile hotspot instead of home WiFi
If WiFi still doesn’t work, it’s time to visit an Apple Store or authorized repair center for diagnostics.
Alternative Solutions to Stay Online
Use an Ethernet Cable
If you need immediate internet access, use a USB-C to Ethernet adapter and connect your MacBook directly to the router.
Use a USB WiFi Adapter
External WiFi adapters are affordable and plug directly into your MacBook’s USB-C port.
They come with drivers that can bypass internal WiFi card problems.
Enable iPhone Hotspot
You can also connect to your iPhone’s personal hotspot over WiFi or USB for temporary internet access.
How to Prevent Future MacBook WiFi Problems
- Always update macOS to the latest stable version
- Use secure, updated WiFi networks
- Regularly clear unused WiFi networks from System Settings
- Restart your MacBook occasionally to refresh system processes
Good habits can save you from annoying WiFi interruptions later on.
FAQs About MacBook Won’t Connect to WiFi But Other Devices Will
Why does my MacBook not connect to WiFi while my phone does?
It might be outdated network settings, DNS issues, or macOS bugs causing the problem.
How do I reset WiFi settings on my MacBook?
You can forget the network and reconnect manually, or reset all network settings through System Settings.
Does resetting NVRAM help with MacBook WiFi issues?
Yes, resetting NVRAM can fix stored network errors and is often recommended for persistent WiFi issues.
Can outdated macOS cause WiFi problems?
Absolutely. Running an old version of macOS may cause incompatibility with newer routers or network standards.
What to do if none of the WiFi fixes work on my MacBook?
If all software fixes fail, it’s likely a hardware problem requiring professional repair at an Apple Store.