Connect a phone to the same Wi-Fi and turn off its mobile data for the test. If the phone cannot get online either, check the network first. If only the Mac fails, try another network, then check the Mac’s address and run Wireless Diagnostics.
01Separate a site outage from a connection problem
Section linkOn the Mac, open another website and try an app that needs the internet. If only one site fails, check that site or browser before changing Wi-Fi settings. If nothing loads, compare with the phone on the same Wi-Fi and then try the Mac on another trusted network. If the Mac works elsewhere, focus on the original network.
02If other devices on the same Wi-Fi also fail
Section linkIf it is your router, restart it and wait for it to reconnect before testing again. If the outage continues across devices, check with your internet provider. On hotel, school, or office Wi-Fi, ask the network operator whether you need to sign in or register the device.
03Renew the address if your Mac uses DHCP
Section linkOpen Apple menu → System Settings → Network. Select Wi-Fi, open Details, then choose TCP/IP → Renew DHCP Lease and click OK. Retry the same site. This asks the network to renew the Mac’s assigned address. If your network uses a manually assigned address, leave it unchanged and check with the person who manages the network.
04Run Wireless Diagnostics without resetting Wi-Fi
Section linkSave your work and quit open apps. Hold Option and click Wi-Fi in the menu bar or Control Center, then choose Open Wireless Diagnostics. Follow the prompts and read the Summary. The tool does not change network settings. If the Mac has trouble on several networks, also check the date and time and whether a VPN or network filter is active. Ask IT before changing a managed VPN or filter.