How to Fix Mac WiFi Not Working

Step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix Mac WiFi connection issues. Covers network settings, DNS, and hardware troubleshooting methods.

Check WiFi is enabled and restart WiFi. Click the WiFi icon in the menu bar and verify it shows available networks. If WiFi is off, click 'Turn Wi-Fi On'. If already on, click 'Turn Wi-Fi Off', wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. Try connecting to your network again.
Forget and reconnect to the network. Open System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi > Advanced. Select your network from the list and click the minus (-) button to remove it. Click OK, then Apply. Reconnect by selecting your network from the WiFi menu and entering your password.
Reset network settings. Open System Preferences > Network. Select Wi-Fi from the left sidebar, then click the minus (-) button to remove it. Click Apply, then click the plus (+) button and select Wi-Fi from the Interface dropdown. Click Create and Apply.
Run Wireless Diagnostics. Hold Option and click the WiFi icon in the menu bar. Select 'Open Wireless Diagnostics' and follow the prompts. The tool will analyze your connection and generate a detailed report. Review the summary for specific issues and recommendations.
Change DNS servers. Open System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi > Advanced > DNS. Click the plus (+) button and add 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google DNS) or 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare DNS). Click OK and Apply.
Reset the SMC (System Management Controller). Shut down your Mac completely. For MacBooks with removable batteries, remove the battery for 15 seconds. For newer MacBooks, press Shift-Control-Option on the left side plus the power button for 10 seconds. For desktop Macs, unplug the power cord for 15 seconds. Restart your Mac.
Create a new network location. Open System Preferences > Network. Click the Location dropdown and select 'Edit Locations'. Click the plus (+) button, name the new location, and click Done. Configure your WiFi settings in this new location and test the connection.