How can I tell if a network requires a password?
A password-protected Wi‑Fi network has a lock icon next to its name.
What if I don’t know my Wi‑Fi password?
If your cable or Internet provider set up your Wi‑Fi router:
- Look for a label on the side or bottom of the router—it might list the default password.
Network Name (SSID): XXXXX
Network Key (Password): XXXXXXXXXX
- If your provider gave you a setup sheet, check it for your network information and password.
- Contact your cable or Internet provider for help recovering or resetting your Wi‑Fi password.
If you own your Wi‑Fi router:
- If someone else set up your network, ask that person for help.
- If you never created a personal password, check the brand of your Wi‑Fi router and go to their website to find the default password.
- To reset the password, either call the router manufacturer or check their website or user guide.
If you’re using a public Wi‑Fi network at a library, hotel, business, or other shared space:
- Look for signs or information sheets that list the Wi‑Fi network name and password.
- Some public Wi‑Fi networks might ask you to log in after joining the network.
- Ask a staff member for help.
What if I know my password, but the network won’t accept it?
In iOS:
- Tap Settings > Wi‑Fi.
- Tap
next to the network that you're trying to join.
- Tap Forget This Network, then confirm by tapping Forget.
- Try to join the network again.
In macOS:
- Choose Apple () menu > System Preferences.
- Click Network, then select Wi-Fi in the sidebar on the left.
- Click the Advanced button.
- Select the Wi‑Fi network that you're trying to join, then click the Remove (–) button. If you're asked to confirm, click Remove.
- Click OK.
- Click Apply.
- Try to join the network again.
If the network still won’t accept your password:
- Make sure that you’re trying to join your network and not a nearby, similarly named network.
- Be careful to enter the password correctly. Wi‑Fi passwords are case-sensitive.
- If someone else set up your network, follow steps to confirm that you’re using the correct password.