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All my Apple devices except my iPad connect to Wifi

My iPad will connect to my WiFi it just can’t access the internet. I have reset it and it still won’t. All my other devices work fine on the same Wifi. Anyone know what to do?

Posted on Jul 7, 2023 3:52 PM

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2 replies

Jul 8, 2023 5:02 PM in response to kaonika

Internet connection difficulties are usually an indication that your device does not have a routable IP Address - your IP Address usually being assigned by DHCP. When problems occur, your iPad may only have a self-assigned link-local IP address that begins 169.254.x.x.


You can verify your DHCP-assigned IP Address from settings:

Settings > WiFi > [Your WiFi Network / SSID] - tap the blue “i” icon - [IPv4 Address] IP Address



If you have a VPN App or profiles installed, or a security App such as Norton, these may be interfering with DHCP and preventing your device from obtaining a valid IP Address for the WiFi network to which you are attempting to connect. The resolution is usually simple; if installed, you may only need to temporarily disable or remove the Security App and/or VPN.


DHCP is frequently used to automatically obtain an IP Address. Until your iPad has a valid IP Address to connect to your network, you will not have an internet connection. Disabling or removing VPN and/or the offending security App should allow DHCP to operate normally - allowing connection to your network and the internet.


If this resolves your issue, the VPN and/or security App can be reinstated after the connectivity problem has been resolved.


If some Apps are working as expected, while others are not - or other devices can connect to your WiFi network - you may find that a restart of your WiFi Router, followed by a restart of your iPad will clear the problem….


To restart your router, disconnect power from the router for at least 30 seconds - then reconnect power to restart. After your router reboots (which may take several minutes), force restart your iPad:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.




Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.



If you continue to have difficulties, check to see if your iPad is using the WiFi Private Address feature. This feature is intended to provide additional privacy and security when using “public” (untrusted) WiFi networks.

Settings > WiFi > [Your WiFi Network / SSID] - tap the “i” icon - Private Address


The Private Address feature is largely unnecessary for your home WiFi network; if enabled, Private Addressing can cause issues if specific MAC addresses are expected by your WiFi Router. You may need to disable this feature - and can be enabled or disabled for each individual network.


Use private Wi-Fi addresses in iOS 14, iPadOS 14, and watchOS 7 - Apple Support


Jul 8, 2023 5:51 PM in response to kaonika

Thanks for reaching out kaonika,


It sounds like you're able to connect to your Wi-Fi network, but are unable to connect to the internet with your iPad. We can help.


The first thing we'll want to do is determine if the issue is with your iPad or your Wi-Fi network. Networks can be configured to only allow so many devices, to allow only specific devices, and this could be happening. On the other hand, if there's an issue or restriction with your iPad, it could be blocked for those reasons as well.


Let's have you try connecting to a different network altogether. If it connects, then you may need to look into your Wi-Fi network's settings. If it doesn't connect, you may need to have your device evaluated or a diagnostic run. To do that, you can connect with Apple directly using either Get Support or if you're in a region without direct support options, you can also Contact Apple for support and service.


Hope that helps.


Take care.


All my Apple devices except my iPad connect to Wifi

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