Before beginning, make sure you have the password (pre-shared key) for your wireless network. If you do not know your router's wireless password, you may be able to retrieve it from your router.

NOTE: In most versions of Mac OS X, Wireless is called AirPort. From Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion) it is referred to as Wi-Fi.

Turning Wireless on and off

Prior to connecting to a wireless network, you will need to ensure that your Macintosh's wireless is turned on.

Turning wireless off and back on again is also a useful troubleshooting step if you are having difficulty connecting to your network.

Step 1

• Locate the Wireless icon in your menu bar at the top right corner of your screen.
• Click on this icon and a menu will drop down.

Figure 1: The three main states of Apple's wireless icon. Left: Wireless turned off. Middle: Wireless on, but not connected to a network. Right: Wireless on and connected to a network.

Step 2

• If your wireless is off, you will be able to select Turn AirPort On (or Turn Wi-Fi On depending on your version of Mac OS X) from the menu.
• If your wireless is on, you will be able to select Turn AirPort Off (or Turn Wi-Fi Off depending on your version of Mac OS X) from the menu.

Figure 2: Turning Wireless on and off.

Connecting your computer to a wireless network

Step 1

• Ensure your wireless connection is turned on.
• Locate the Wireless Icon in your menu bar and click on this so your wireless menu drops down.
• Locate your wireless network name in the list and click on it.

Figure 3: Selecting your wireless network from the list.

Step 2

• If the network has security enabled, you will be prompted for the password. Enter your wireless network's password (pre-shared key), and click OK.
  HINT: If you select Show Password you will be able to see the password in plain text, which may make entering the password easier.

Figure 4: Entering your Password (Pre-Shared Key).

Step 3

• Your Macintosh will attempt to connect to your wireless network. If successful, the icon at the top of your screen will darken to indicate it is connected.

Figure 5: The wireless icon will darken if successfully connected.

Congratulations! You have successfully connected your Macintosh computer to your wireless network.

Further Assistance

If you are looking to connect your Windows computer to a wireless network, please see the following guide:

• Wireless Configuration for Windows computers

If you are having trouble setting up your router or would like to clarify some of the steps, please contact our Support Team.