Solving iPad`s WiFi problems

Wi-Fi is pretty much a critical function for comfortable usage of the iPad. Here, we will analyze what you can do if your iPad won't connect to a wireless network or drops the signal frequently.

Check if the router works

Before worrying about whether everything is okay with your iPad, check if there is actually a Wi-Fi connection. Just check if other devices can connect to the wireless network.

Reboot everything

This is an old, tried, and true method of making things work in the IT business. Just reboot your iPad as well as your wireless router. Do not try this with a cafeteria's router - they may not understand your noble intentions. In some cases, polite requests to a restuarant's manager work quite well, though.

Update everything

Though it may seem trivial, updating firmware works in many cases. So, if there are any updates for Your iPad's iOS, go and grab them. Wi-Fi problems with version 1 of the iPad were solved in one of the updates to the firmware. To check for updates, connect your iPad to iTunes and select the "Devices" section. Then click on "Check for Updates." If there are some, click on "Update.

However, the iPad is not the only possible culprit here. Your Wi-Fi router could be responsible for connection problems as well. So, if you can, go and update its firmware.

Renew DHCP lease

DHCP is a protocol that allows routers to assign IP addresses to other devices. Your iPhone also uses DHCP to connect to Wi-Fi. In some cases, renewing the DHCP lease (basically the IP address and some service info on your device's connection to the router) can help you connect.

To renew the DHCP lease on your iPad, do the following:

● Go to Settings > General > Network

● Tap the round button with an arrow inside on the right side of the wireless network name

● Tap on the "Renew Lease" button

This will make your iPad get a new IP address, DNS, and Search Domain information from your wireless router.

Reset network settings

 In some cases, it makes sense to try to reset your network settings to the default ones. Unfortunately, this will erase all of your network settings including your passwords, VPN settings, and APN settings. To reset your network settings go to Settings --> General, and tap "Reset".

Try using WPA and WPA2 wireless encryption protocols

Besides the means described above, Apple recommends using WPA and WPA2 encryption protocols instead of the WEP protocol. According to Apple support pages, those protocols are more secure and more up-to-date than WEP. The same advisory says that some routers may disconnect iPad devices and repeatedly ask for passwords if they are using WEP.

To change the WEP protocol to WPA/WPA2, you need to log into your router's administrative interface.

Turn off 40 MHz mode on router

Another piece of advice from Apple's recommendations is to turn off the 40 MHz frequency band on your router. According to the company, radio waves of this frequency may cause problems for the iPad's connection to Wi-Fi.