How to connect to a Wi-Fi network

Wi-Fi Internet access lets you use your computer or mobile device to work, find information online, communicate with others, or play games. If you have a Windows or macOS computer, smartphone, or tablet, select the appropriate link below for help connecting to a Wi-Fi network.

Connect a computer to Wi-Fi

To connect a computer to a Wi-Fi network, a wireless network adapter must be installed. Most laptops come with a built-in wireless network adapter, but many desktop computers do not and may require a separate device.

To connect your computer to a Wi-Fi network, select your computer type below and follow the instructions.

Windows computer

1. In the Windows notification area, click the network connections icon.
2. In the window that opens, select the SSID (service set identifier) or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use and click the Connect button.

3. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a network security key or (Wi-Fi password). Enter the security key for the Wi-Fi network and click Next.

4. If the security key you entered is correct, your computer connects to the Wi-Fi network.

macOS computer

1. On the right side of the macOS menu bar, click the network connections or icon, depending on whether Wi-Fi is disabled or enabled.
2. If Wi-Fi is disabled, in the drop-down menu, turn it on by clicking the toggle switch.

3. In the same drop-down menu, click the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

4. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you must enter a password when prompted. Then, click the Join button.

5. If the password you entered is correct, your computer connects to the Wi-Fi network.

Connect a smartphone or tablet to Wi-Fi

Nearly all smartphones and tablets have a built-in wireless network adapter, allowing you to connect to a Wi-Fi network almost anywhere. Select the type of smartphone or tablet you use from the list below and follow the steps to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

Android smartphone or tablet

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen.
2. Press and hold your finger on the Wi-Fi icon until the screen with additional Wi-Fi options is displayed.
3. Tap the Use Wi-Fi option to turn on Wi-Fi.
4. In the list of Wi-Fi networks, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.
5. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. After you've entered the password, tap Join.

6. If the password you entered is correct, your device connects to the Wi-Fi network.

or

1. Swipe up from the bottom of the phone twice, and locate Settings in the list of installed apps.
2. Tap the Settings app.
3. Tap the Connections, Network & Internet, Wi-Fi, or Wireless & Networks option, depending on the version of Android and type of device.
4. Make sure the Wi-Fi switch is in the on () position.
5. In the list of Wi-Fi networks, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.
6. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. After you've entered the password, tap Connect.

7. If the password you entered is correct, your device connects to the Wi-Fi network.

iPhone or iPad

1. Swipe down from the top-right of the screen.
2. Press and hold your finger on the Wi-Fi icon until the screen with four to six icons is displayed.

3. Tap the Wi-Fi Not Connected icon so that it turns blue and changes to "Wi-Fi Searching."
4. Press and hold your finger on the blue Wi-Fi Searching icon until the list of Wi-Fi networks is displayed.
5. Tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

6. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. After you've entered the password, tap Join.

7. If the password you entered is correct, your device connects to the Wi-Fi network.

or

1. Access the Settings app on your device.
2. On the Settings screen, tap the Wi-Fi option.
3. Make sure the Wi-Fi toggle is switched to the on position.
4. In the Networks list, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

5. If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. Enter the password and tap Join.

6. If the password you entered is correct, your device connects to the Wi-Fi network.

Can't find the Wi-Fi network

If you can't find the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use, it may be due to one of the situations listed below.

Not in range of the Wi-Fi network

A wireless router can only transmit a Wi-Fi signal over a limited distance. Consequently, your device may not be in range of the Wi-Fi network's signal. If your device is outside that range, the SSID won't be available in the list of Wi-Fi networks.

Wi-Fi network is hidden

For increased protection, some people configure their wireless router to hide the SSID for the Wi-Fi network. If you have permission to connect to the hidden Wi-Fi network and know the SSID, select the Hidden network, Join Other Network, Other, or a similar option. Enter the SSID and Wi-Fi password when prompted to connect.