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

Connect a computer to Wi-Fi

To connect a computer to a Wi-Fi network, it must have a wireless network adapter installed. Most laptops come with a built-in wireless network adapter, but desktop computers usually do not and require one to be installed.

  • Connect a computer to Wi-Fi
  • Connect a smartphone or tablet to Wi-Fi
  • Can’t find the Wi-Fi network

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

Windows computer

  • In the Windows notification area, click the network connections icon.

  • In the window that opens, select the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use and click the Connect button.

  • Windows computer

  • macOS computer

  • 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.

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

macOS computer

  • In the macOS menu bar, click the network connections or icon, depending on whether Wi-Fi is disabled or enabled.

  • If Wi-Fi is disabled, in the drop-down menu that appears, select the Turn Wi-Fi On option.

  • In the same drop-down menu, click the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to from the list.

  • If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. After you’ve entered the password, click Join.

  • 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.

Information sent over an unprotected Wi-Fi network (one that does not require a password) could be intercepted by a malicious third party. We recommend only using password-protected networks to safeguard yourself and your information.

To automatically connect to the Wi-Fi network, click the checkbox next to Connect automatically in step 2 above.

If you’re connecting to a hotel, restaurant, retail store, or another public Wi-Fi network, you may be required to accept some terms and conditions first.

Android smartphone or tablet

  • Swipe down from the top of the screen.

  • Press and hold your finger on the Wi-Fi icon until the screen with additional Wi-Fi options is displayed.

  • Tap the Use Wi-Fi option to turn on Wi-Fi.

  • In the list of Wi-Fi networks, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

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

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

or

  • Android smartphone or tablet.

  • iPhone or iPad.

  • Swipe up from the bottom of the phone twice, and locate Settings in the list of installed apps.

  • Tap the Settings app.

  • Tap the Connections, Network & Internet, Wi-Fi, or Wireless & Networks option, depending on the version of Android and type of device.

  • Make sure the Wi-Fi switch is in the on () position.

  • In the list of Wi-Fi networks, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

  • If the Wi-Fi network is Secured or protected, you are prompted to enter a password. After you’ve entered the password, tap Connect.

iPhone or iPad

  • Swipe down from the top-right of the screen.

  • Press and hold your finger on the Wi-Fi icon until the screen with four to six icons is displayed.

  • Tap the Wi-Fi Not Connected icon so that it turns blue and changes to “Wi-Fi Searching.”

  • Press and hold your finger on the blue Wi-Fi Searching icon until the list of Wi-Fi networks is displayed.

  • Tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

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

  • Access the Settings app on your device.

  • On the Settings screen, tap the Wi-Fi option.

  • Make sure the Wi-Fi toggle is switched to the on position.

  • In the Networks list, tap the SSID or the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to use.

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

Can’t find the Wi-Fi network

If you can’t find the SSID or name of the Wi-Fi network you want to connect to, the issue is usually one of the following.

Not in range of the Wi-Fi network

Your computer may not be in range of the Wi-Fi network’s signal. A wireless router can only transmit a Wi-Fi signal over a limited distance. If your computer 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.

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  • How to protect yourself while on the Internet.
  • Network and network card help and support.