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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Wi-Fi at Mac

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MacSecure was phased out in spring 2020 and you should be able to see Mac-WiFi as the preferred network.

Importantly, you might need to “forget” the MacSecure network to automatically connect to the preferred Mac-WiFi. To do this, click on your device’s Network Settings, and then Manage Wi-Fi settings. There should be an option to “forget” the network profile.

  1. Use Mac-WiFi.
  2. Ensure you have at least 3 bars of signal strength (4-5 is best).
  3. Make sure you are on the best AP possible by disconnecting and reconnecting when you arrive at your usage destination. Client devices control when they change Access Points and tend to hold on to a connection that is poor even when a better one is available.
  4. Ensure that your WLAN drivers are up-to-date from the manufacturer web site.
  5. If possible, avoid highly congested areas. Crowded areas are naturally going to decrease WiFi performance.
  • No, a VPN is not required with any of the McMaster networks. You should only use a VPN when you have been given specific instructions to do so.

Forgetting a wireless network can be helpful when troubleshooting wireless network problems or if you have changed your MAC ID password and need to re-enter it for wireless access. This article provides instructions on how to forget a wireless network on various operating systems and device types. 

Follow these instructions to remove Mac-WiFi or eduroam networks from your device. 

On Desktop 

Windows 10

To forget a wireless network in Windows 10:

  • At the bottom right in the system tray, click the network icon and choose Network & Internet settings.
  • Click Manage Wi-Fi settings. Under “Manage known networks”, select the Wi-Fi network to be removed.
  • Click Forget. 

MacOS 

To forget a wireless network in macOS (these steps may require administrator privileges):

  • At the top of your screen, click the Wi-Fi symbol and then select Open Network Preferences.
  • In the lower right, choose Advanced.
  • Under “Preferred Networks”, select the Wi-Fi network to be removed.
  • Click – (the minus sign) to forget the network.
  • Click OK.  

On Mobile: 

Android 

To forget a wireless network on your Android mobile device: 

  • From the home screen, choose Settings.
  • In the settings menu, choose Wi-Fi.
  • Press and hold the Wi-Fi network to be removed, and then choose Forget. 

 IOS 

To forget a wireless network on your iPhone or iPad: 

  • From the home screen, choose Settings.
  • In the settings menu, choose Wi-Fi.
  • Locate the Wi-Fi network to be removed and click the blue symbol next to the name.
  • If the option to forget the network is available, tap Forget this Network.

If that option is not available: 

  • From the home screen, choose Settings.
  • In the settings menu, choose General. Locate and tap Profile.
  • Select the profile for Wi-Fi network to be removed, and tap Delete profile.