How to Connect a Laptop to Wi-Fi

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:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar (lower right corner).
   
   

2. A list of available networks will appear.
   
   

3. Select your desired network and click Connect.
   
   

4. Enter the Wi-Fi password and click Next.
   
   

5. Once connected, the icon will show a solid signal.
   
   

For macOS:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top-right menu bar.
   
   

2. Choose your desired network from the list.
   
   

3. Enter the Wi-Fi password when prompted and click Join.
   
   

4. 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.