iMac Troubleshooting Communication Issues
Troubleshooting Bluetooth or Wi-Fi issues
Troubleshooting Ethernet issues
Troubleshooting Bluetooth or Wi-Fi issues
Identify issues
Read this article if you notice any of the following issues:
Can’t turn on Bluetooth
Can't pair the computer with a Bluetooth device
Intermittent communication loss with a paired Bluetooth device
Bluetooth data transfer that's slow or times out
Wi-Fi service unavailable
Can't turn on Wi-Fi
Can't connect the computer to a Wi-Fi network
Intermittent Wi-Fi communication loss
Poor Wi-Fi signal
Resolve Wi-Fi and Bluetooth issues caused by wireless interference
If the issue wasn’t resolved by following a support article, continue to the next section.
Try quick troubleshooting steps
Restart the Mac.
Ensure that the date and time are set correctly on the Mac.
If you can connect to the internet from a different Wi-Fi network or when using a wired Ethernet connection, connect to that network. Then update macOS on the Mac.
Refer to steps and support resources in Troubleshooting Quick Checks.
Run manual and diagnostic tests
If the issue wasn’t resolved by following a support article or checking for potential causes, run these diagnostic and manual tests to help isolate the cause of the issue:
Attempt to join a Wi-Fi network while the mac is in macOS recovery mode.
Open and inspect the computer
If your issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following support articles or running diagnostics tests, refer to the computer's repair manual to open and inspect the computer. A damaged or out-of-place part may be causing one of the issues.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer's issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.
Replace the part
If the issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following the previous steps, replace the following parts one at a time in the order shown. After you replace the first part, repeat the troubleshooting steps to determine whether replacing a part resolves the issue. If it still isn’t resolved, replace the next part.
Replace the affected antenna. This may be a separate part, or part of the enclosure, depending on which antenna or cable is affected.
Replace the logic board.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer's issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.
Troubleshooting Ethernet issues
Identify issues
Ethernet doesn’t appear as a network service.
Ethernet service can't be activated.
Ethernet service shows no connection.
Ethernet is unable to obtain an IP address.
Ethernet network performance is slow.
Try quick troubleshooting steps
Follow all relevant recommended steps in the following support articles:
If you can connect to the internet from a Wi-Fi network, connect to that network. Then update macOS on the Mac.
Ensure that the iMac can support wired Ethernet connectivity; some models only support Wi-Fi. Refer to Mac Tech Specs for more information.
Ensure that you are using the correct iMac power adapter for wired Ethernet connectivity: the external iMac power adapter with Ethernet.
Note:iMac (24-inch, M1, 2021, 2023, and 2024) uses the power adapter for power and for wired Ethernet connectivity. Some power adapters come with an RJ-45 Ethernet port, but other power adapters don't have one.
Important: Some configurations of iMac (24-inch, 2024) purchased with the external iMac power adapter without Ethernet cannot use the external iMac power adapter with Ethernet, and therefore only support Wi-Fi connectivity. The logic board in these models does not have the Ethernet controller IC needed for wired Ethernet functionality.
Verify that nothing is inserted into the Ethernet port on the power adapter. Visually inspect the port for damage or debris.
If you find any debris in the Ethernet port, gently clean this area using a small, nonmetallic, soft-bristled brush. Ensure that the brush is clean and dry. Gently brush out lint or debris. Use just enough bristles to fit inside the connector. Twist the bristles to loosen and lift out debris. Brush debris away from the connector to avoid brushing debris into the connector. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened debris.
Caution: Unplug all cables and turn off the computer first. Don't use aerosol sprays, solvents, abrasives, or cleaners containing hydrogen peroxide that might damage the finish. Don’t use any metal objects to clear debris or obstructions, as this can short the connector and cause damage. Avoid getting moisture in any openings, and don't spray liquid directly on the computer or power adapter. Don't use compressed air.
Connect the power adapter to the computer and to an Ethernet network with an Ethernet cable. Verify that the Ethernet cable’s RJ-45 connector is not damaged and is securely connected to the Ethernet port on the power adapter.
Check the DC connector on the power adapter for damage, debris, or corrosion on the DC connector pins. If you find corrosion, using a soft cloth to wipe it away may resolve the issue.
Note: A damaged connector has corrosion that can’t be wiped away.
Inspect the DC inlet connector and enclosure opening on the computer for signs of damage or debris.
Important: Do not use metal objects to clear debris or obstructions.
Note: The plastic guides inside the connector should be intact and not damaged or broken off.
Connect the power adapter to the computer with its DC connector. When you insert the connector, it may rotate slightly to align with the receptacle as the magnets seat the connector. When you remove the connector from the computer, always pull the connector straight out. Do not turn or twist the connector while removing it.
Use another external iMac power adapter to verify whether the adapter being used with the computer is functional.
Refer to steps and support resources in Troubleshooting Quick Checks.
Run manual and diagnostic tests
If the issue wasn’t resolved by following a support article or checking for potential causes, run these diagnostic and manual tests to help isolate the cause of the issue:
Replace the part
If your issue wasn’t resolved or isolated by following the previous steps, replace the external iMac power adapter with Ethernet.
Note: This section requires ordering parts and tools. Replacing a part may not resolve the computer's issue. You can find other service options at support.apple.com/repair.