iPhone: Connecting to the Internet

When you use any Internet enabled application, iPhone does the following in order until connected:

1. Connects over the last Wi-Fi network you used that's available.
2. If no Wi-Fi networks you've used are available, shows a list of Wi-Fi networks in range. Tap a network and, if necessary, enter the password to join. Networks that require a password show next to them.
3. If no Wi-Fi networks are available or you choose not to join any, iPhone connects over the cellular data network.

Note: You can be on a call and use Wi-Fi or 3G¹ at the same time. Other cellular data networks are unavailable while you're on a call.

Wi-Fi

• Wi-Fi is often faster than cellular data networks. Wi-Fi networks cover limited areas. iPhone can join AirPort and other Wi-Fi networks at home, at work, or at Wi-Fi hot spots around the world.
  When iPhone is connected to a Wi-Fi network, the Wi-Fi icon in the status bar at the top of the screen shows connection strength. The more bars you see, the stronger the connection.
• To see all the Wi-Fi networks in range, from the Home screen choose Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap a network to join it.
• Many Wi-Fi networks can be used free of charge, and some require a fee. To join a Wi-Fi network at a hot spot where charges apply, in most cases you can open Safari to see a webpage that allows you to sign up for service.

For information about configuring Wi-Fi settings, see the "Wi-Fi" section of the iPhone User's Guide.

Note: iOS devices sold in China may use the term Wireless LAN (WLAN) instead of Wi-Fi. Not all China iPhone models support WLAN; see this article for more information.

Cellular data networks

• Cellular data networks allow Internet connectivity over the cellular network. Check your carrier's network coverage in your area for availability.

  You can tell iPhone is connected to the Internet over a cellular data network if you see _, or  in the status bar at the top of the screen.

  If you're outside your carrier's network, you may be able to use a cellular data network from another carrier. Roaming charges may apply.

  Note: If not on 3G, while iPhone is actively transferring data over the cellular data network—downloading a webpage, for example—you may not be able to receive calls. Incoming calls may go to voicemail.