I. Introduction
Connecting to different WiFi networks is an essential part of our daily routine. However, when your Mac remembers too many networks, it can slow down your computer. To solve this problem, you need to forget the networks you no longer use. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you forget WiFi networks on your Mac.
II. Step-by-step guide
Forgetting WiFi networks on your Mac is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
- Click on the Apple logo located at the top left corner of your screen.
- Select “System Preferences” from the options presented.
- Scroll down to “Network” and click on it.
- From the list of available networks, select the one you want to forget.
- Click on the “minus” button located at the bottom of the list.
- Confirm that you want to forget the network by clicking on “OK.”
Congratulations, you have successfully forgotten the network!
If you prefer a more visual guide, here is a step-by-step guide with pictures.
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If you still experience issues, here are a few common problems and how to fix them.
1. “Forget” button greyed out
If the “Forget” button is greyed out, it means that your Mac is currently not connected to the network. Connect to the network before attempting to forget it.
2. Wi-Fi network not visible
If the Wi-Fi network you want to forget is not visible, it means that your Mac is currently not in range of the network. Move closer to the network or wait until you’re in its range before attempting to forget it.
III. Comparison to other OS
Forgetting WiFi networks on a Mac is slightly different from other operating systems. Here’s why:
1. MacOS
In MacOS, you have to go to “System Preferences” and then “Network” to forget WiFi networks. This process is consistent across all MacOS versions.
2. Windows
In Windows, you have to go to “Settings,” then “Network & Internet,” and then “Wi-Fi.” From there, you can select “Manage known networks” and then click on the network you want to forget. This process works for Windows 10 and Windows 8.1. For previous versions of Windows, the process may differ.
3. iOS
In iOS, you have to go to “Settings,” then “Wi-Fi,” and then select the network you want to forget. Tap “Forget This Network,” and then confirm.
Despite these differences, forgetting WiFi networks across different operating systems is straightforward.
IV. Tips and Tricks
Forgetting WiFi networks is just one of the ways you can improve your WiFi experience on a Mac. Here are a few extra tips:
1. Remove network clutter
Removing old or unused networks is the first step to improving your WiFi experience. It’s essential to keep your list organized and minimize clutter in your preferred networks’ list.
2. Reset the WiFi module
Sometimes your Mac may experience network connectivity issues that simple forgetting of networks can’t solve. In such cases, resetting the WiFi module may help. To do this, go to “System Preferences,” select “Network,” and then click on “Advanced.” Select the “Wi-Fi” tab and click on “Disconnect from this network” to reset the WiFi module.
3. Use network diagnostics tools
If you experience persistent connectivity issues, you may need to use network diagnostics tools. MacOS has built-in network diagnostics tools that can help diagnose and troubleshoot connectivity issues.
V. Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions related to forgetting WiFi networks on a Mac:
1. Can I forget WiFi networks on my Mac while offline?
No, you can only forget WiFi networks on your Mac while connected to them. If your Mac can’t see the network, it can’t forget it.
2. Will forgetting a network remove its password?
No, forgetting a network only removes your Mac’s memory of that network. The password remains unchanged.
3. Will forgetting a network remove it from other devices?
No, forgetting a network only removes it from the Mac you’re working on. The network will still appear on other devices.
VI. Troubleshooting
Sometimes forget networks on a Mac don’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are a few issues and how to resolve them:
1. My Mac doesn’t connect to remembered networks
If your Mac doesn’t connect to remembered networks, try resetting the WiFi module.
2. The “Forget” button isn’t working
If the “Forget” button isn’t working, try closing the Network pane and reopening it or try restarting your Mac.
3. I forgot a network, but it still appears on the list
If you forget a network, but it still appears on the list, try closing the Network pane and reopening it. If the network still appears, try restarting your Mac.
VII. Conclusion
Forgetting WiFi networks on a Mac is a straightforward process that can free up space, improve network connectivity, and increase device speed. Along with the tips and tricks shared in this article, you can have a hassle-free and enjoyable experience while browsing online. Give the steps outlined in this article a try, and you’ll never look back to unnecessary networks again.
If you still experience issues, feel free to seek help from Apple support.
