Why Does My MacBook Keep Disconnecting from Wi-Fi

Why won't MacBook stay connected to Wi-Fi

If your MacBook won't stay connected to Wi-Fi, try restarting your device, updating macOS, resetting network settings, adjusting sleep preferences, or switching to a 5GHz network.

1. Router and network-related issues

Whenever my MacBook keeps dropping Wi-Fi, the first thing we do is restart both the router and the Mac. It sounds basic, but it often works.

2. MacBook Wi-Fi hardware problems

Our team once dealt with constant drops until Apple support diagnosed a failing Wi-Fi card in one of the MacBooks. These issues can mimic software bugs but require physical repairs to restore stable connectivity and fix slow Internet on your Mac.

3. Software and settings conflicts

We’ve seen cases where outdated network settings, old VPN configurations, or third-party firewalls caused connection drops. When a MacBook keeps dropping Wi-Fi, we always review the network profiles and disable VPNs temporarily.

4. Interference from other devices

A MacBook keeps dropping Wi-Fi more often when placed near Bluetooth speakers, USB 3.0 accessories, or appliances like microwaves. We recommend repositioning the Mac or router to reduce interference and improve slow Internet on your Mac caused by overlapping frequencies or signal blockages.

A note from our experts: 

 

If your MacBook keeps dropping Wi-Fi, it can take hours to figure out which fix applies to your system. Some users try multiple solutions without seeing results. MacKeeper’s Premium Services give you direct, expert-led support so you don’t have to troubleshoot alone. Our technicians guide you through a tailored fix based on your specific Mac model, setup, and system behavior.

 

Here’s how to get expert help in just a few steps:

1. Open the MacKeeper application. If you don’t have it yet, download it from the official website and complete the installation.
2. Click Premium Services in the left-hand menu. You’ll find it under the Support section.
3. Select Chat Now. A secure chat window will open with a certified Mac technician.
4. Describe your issue (e.g., “MacBook keeps dropping Wi-Fi”). The expert will diagnose the issue in real time and walk you through a solution that matches your device and configuration.
5. Follow the step-by-step fix. You’ll receive clear, professional instructions without having to guess what’s wrong or risk making changes on your own.

How to fix Wi-Fi disconnections on your MacBook

If your MacBook Wi-Fi keeps turning off, try restarting your Mac and router, updating macOS, checking for interference, resetting network settings, or adjusting power and sleep preferences. These steps often fix random disconnections and restore stable Wi-Fi performance without needing additional hardware or tools.

1. Restarting MacBook

Restarting helps resolve glitches in the Wi-Fi module that may build up over time. It’s the first fix we try when our Mac keeps losing Wi-Fi connection unexpectedly.

To restart your MacBook correctly:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
2. Select Restart from the dropdown.
3. In the dialog box, uncheck Reopen windows when logging back in.
4. Press Restart again to complete the reboot.

2. Rebooting your router

A router reboot clears the temporary cache and network conflicts. If your MacBook is connected to Wi-Fi but no Internet loads, the issue may lie with the router.

Here’s how to reboot your router effectively:

1. Locate your router’s power cable and unplug it from the wall.
2. Wait for at least 30 seconds to ensure a full power cycle.
3. Plug the router back in and allow all indicator lights to turn green or stable.
4. Reconnect your MacBook to the Wi-Fi network.

3. Reset network settings on MacBook

We reset network settings when Wi-Fi problems persist despite restarts.

Follow these steps to reset network preferences:

1. Open System Settings, go to Network, and click on Wi-Fi.
2. Select Details next to the network you're using.
3. Click Forget This Network and confirm.
4. Open Finder and go to /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/.
5. Delete the following files:
   • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
   • NetworkInterfaces.plist
   • preferences.plist
6. Restart your MacBook to regenerate network settings.
7. Reconnect manually to your Wi-Fi and re-enter the password.

4. Update macOS and Wi-Fi drivers

Our team constantly checks for macOS, and driver updates when a connection keeps dropping.

To update your Mac and fix connectivity issues:

1. Click the Apple icon and go to System Settings.
2. Select General, then click Software Update.
3. If an update is available, click Update Now and follow the prompts.
4. Restart your Mac after installation is completed.
5. Reconnect to Wi-Fi and test performance.

A pro tip from our team: 

 

In some cases, it also helps to fix weak security Wi-Fi on your Mac by applying the latest WPA3 and encryption settings. Read our attached piece to learn them.

5. Adjust router configuration

We often recommend adjusting router settings to reduce interference and stabilize the connection.

Steps to improve router setup for better Wi-Fi stability:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel (typically by entering 192.168.1.1 in a browser).
2. Switch to a 5GHz band if available—it’s faster and less crowded than 2.4GHz.
3. Manually set a Wi-Fi channel (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz; use a Wi-Fi scanner to find the best one).
4. Change DNS to 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare) to boost reliability.
5. Save the settings and restart the router.

6. Try another network or use Ethernet

When we can’t pinpoint the cause of a Wi-Fi issue, we isolate it by switching networks or using a wired connection.

To isolate your connection issue:

1. Disconnect from your current Wi-Fi network.
2. Connect to another network.
3. If the connection stays stable, the original network may be the issue.
4. For stability, try using an Ethernet adapter with your MacBook.
5. Connect the Ethernet cable directly to your router.

Conclusion

If your MacBook keeps disconnecting from Wi-Fi, the cause is often temporary system glitches, outdated software, router conflicts, or interference from nearby devices. Restarting your Mac, updating macOS, or resetting network settings usually solves the issue. For faster results and expert-level support, use MacKeeper’s Premium Services. Our experienced technicians will guide you through a personalized fix.