Unable to connect to network iPad – here’s what you can do

Need to look something up or stream a video, but … your iPad won’t connect to wifi? You’re not the only one. It’s one of the most common problems among iPad users. Fortunately, in most cases it’s easy to fix. In this blog, we’ll take you through the causes as well as the solutions. And by!

In this blog, we discuss:

• iPad does not connect to wifi – possible causes
• Checking settings and networks
• Restart iPad or reset network settings
• iPad wifi not working due to outdated software?
• Updating iPad without an internet connection
• If nothing works: restore factory settings
• Stop by for help – at no risk

iPad does not connect to wifi – what is it?

If your iPad does not connect to a Wi-Fi network, there could be several causes. Go through the following checklist:

1. Check the router or modem: Is everything connected correctly? Is the signal strong enough? A reboot can solve a lot. Turn off the modem completely, wait 2 minutes and reboot.
2. Are you far from the modem? The farther you stand from the router, the weaker the signal. Walk closer to test if this makes a difference.

Check your iPad’s Wi-Fi settings

Sometimes the problem simply lies in the iPad’s settings:

• Go to Settings > Wifi
• Make sure wifi is enabled
• Select your network – does a blue check mark appear? Then the connection was successful

Restart iPad or reset network settings

Does everything seem set up correctly, but are you still not getting wifi?

• Reboot your iPad: often everything works again after a simple reboot
• Restore network settings: this erases all saved networks and passwords – useful if settings have become corrupted

This is how you reset the network settings:

Settings > General > Reset > Restore network settings

iPad wifi not working due to outdated software?

A common cause, especially on an older iPad, is an outdated version of iOS. New networks or security protocols may not be supported.

Go to:

Settings > General > Software Update

Is there an update available? Install it immediately (if possible via another network, hotspot or via computer – see next step).

Updating iPad without an internet connection

But … you are just not connected! No problem. Connect your iPad to a computer or Mac via usb(-c) and open iTunes (PC) or Finder (Mac):

• Select your iPad as soon as it is recognized
• Click on “Search for update”
• Download and install the latest software

In many cases, wifi works again after this update.

No wifi on iPad – and still no solution?

Have you really tried everything, but your iPad still won’t connect to a network?

Then you might consider restoring the iPad to factory settings. Note that this will erase all your data, so make sure you have a backup!

Settings > General > Reset > Clear all content and settings

Also read our article on resetting iPad to factory settings.

Problem not fixed? We will help you further

Is your iPad still not connecting to Wi-Fi and would rather not reset or keep trying endlessly? Feel free to stop by one of our stores for a free diagnosis. We’ll help you right away and work on our No Cure, No Pay guarantee.

👉 Make your appointment here

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