How to Connect a Laptop to Wi-Fi
Created: 06/17/2025
Last Updated: 06/17/2025
Summary:
This article explains how to connect a Windows or macOS laptop to a Wi-Fi network, including steps for selecting a network, entering a password, and troubleshooting common connectivity issues.
Applies To:
System/Platform: Windows 10/11, macOS
User Level: All Staff
Steps:
For Windows 10/11:
Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (lower right corner).
A list of available networks will appear.
Select your desired network and click Connect.
Enter the Wi-Fi password and click Next.
Once connected, the icon will show a solid signal.
For macOS:
Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top-right menu bar.
Choose your desired network from the list.
Enter the Wi-Fi password when prompted and click Join.
A checkmark will appear next to the network once connected.
Troubleshooting Tips:
No networks showing: Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on and airplane mode is off.
Can't connect: Double-check the password, restart your laptop, or forget and reconnect to the network.
Weak signal: Move closer to the router or access point.
Still not working: Restart your router or contact IT if using campus or enterprise Wi-Fi.
Related Articles:
[How to Forget a Wi-Fi Network]
[Setting Up VPN After Wi-Fi Connection]
Contributor Notes (Optional):
Updated for new Wi-Fi interface in Windows 11 23H2 and macOS Sonoma.
License:
This article is shared under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. You’re free to copy, share, or adapt it as long as you give credit.