Reset Network Settings on Mac

To reset MacBook network settings, forget your Wi-Fi network in System Settings or delete network configuration files manually. This resolves connectivity issues by restoring default settings. In addition, pair it with MacKeeper’s VPN Private Connect for secure, stable browsing with encrypted traffic and IP masking across all network types.

Why you might need to reset network settings on Mac

You might need to reset network settings on Mac if Wi-Fi won't connect, networks drop unexpectedly, your internet slows down, or saved networks won't load. It's also helpful after software updates, VPN conflicts, or switching between multiple Wi-Fi connections during travel or remote work.

A note from our experts: 

 

Network glitches and privacy risks often go hand in hand, especially when switching between unknown or unsecured Wi-Fi networks. That’s why we recommend using MacKeeper’s VPN Private Connect. It protects your internet traffic by encrypting your data and masking your IP address, helping you browse privately and safely.

 

To protect your privacy with MacKeeper’s VPN Private Connect:

1. Download and install MacKeeper on your Mac or MacBook.
2. Open the app and go to the Private Connect section from the left sidebar.
3. Enable the connection by toggling the switch next to your location section.
4. Choose your preferred location.

What happens when you reset network settings

When you reset network settings on a Mac, saved Wi-Fi networks, VPN configurations, and custom network preferences are removed. Your system reverts to default settings, clearing cached data and misconfigured files that may be causing connectivity problems. This can fix frequent disconnects, failed connections, or slow internet performance.

How to reset network settings on Mac

To reset network settings on a Mac, you can forget and re-add Wi-Fi networks via System Settings or manually delete configuration files in the SystemConfiguration folder. Advanced users may also use Terminal commands to restart the Wi-Fi interface. Whenever you use these methods, you save preferences, reset faulty settings, and resolve many connectivity issues. Pairing this with MacKeeper’s VPN Private Connect ensures secure browsing after your network is restored.

1. Create new network location

If your MacBook is connected to Wi-Fi but no Internet access is available, creating a new network location can refresh settings without deleting any files. We've found this to be the safest and most beginner-friendly method to resolve DNS issues, IP conflicts, or slow response times.

Here's how to do it:

1. Open System Settings > Network.
2. Click the three dots menu and go to Locations > Edit Locations.
3. Click + and select New Location.
4. Name it anything (e.g., "Clean Start").
5. Reconnect to your Wi-Fi network and click Apply.

2. Delete network configuration files manually

This method works when Wi-Fi settings are deeply corrupted. Our team always recommends backing up your config files first.

Here's how you do it safely:

1. Turn off Wi-Fi from the menu bar.
2. Open Finder > Go > Go to Folder.
3. Type: /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ and hit Return.
4. Copy these files to your desktop as a backup:
   • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
   • com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
   • NetworkInterfaces.plist
   • preferences.plist
5. Delete them from the original folder.
6. Restart your Mac and turn Wi-Fi back on.

3. Use Terminal to reset network settings

If your MacBook is not connecting to Wi-Fi despite all efforts, Terminal commands are a reliable fallback.

Follow these steps in Terminal:

1. Open Terminal.
2. Turn off Wi-Fi with the sudo ifconfig en0 down command.
3. Enter your Mac admin password when prompted.
4. Restart Wi-Fi with the sudo ifconfig en0 up command.
5. Close Terminal and try reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network.

4. Use third-party tools

We often recommend cleanup tools like MacKeeper, CleanMyMac, or iStat Menus. They include features like DNS cache flushing, Wi-Fi reset, and removal of old network data, all helpful when your Mac behaves oddly online.

To use a third-party tool (e.g., MacKeeper) for cleaning DNS cache, do the following:

1. Download and open MacKeeper.
2. Use the Safe Cleanup feature.
3. Click on Start Scan.
4. See the results, pick Caches box/Check All, and confirm to Clean Junk Files.
5. Reboot a Mac and try reconnecting to your preferred Wi-Fi.

5. Reset SMC and PRAM/NVRAM (optional)

If you're experiencing slow Internet on Mac or strange Wi-Fi behavior, I suggest resetting the SMC and PRAM/NVRAM.

To reset PRAM/NVRAM:

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Turn it on and immediately press Command + Option + P + R.
3. Hold for about 20 seconds, then release.

Conclusion

Resetting network settings on a Mac resolves issues such as dropped connections, slow speeds, or misconfigured preferences by restoring the network defaults. You can do this by creating a new network location, deleting system files, or using Terminal. To maintain online privacy and stable access, use MacKeeper's VPN Private Connect. It encrypts data, hides your IP, and secures every session on public or private networks.