Fixed: WiFi Not connecting After iOS 18 Update

Posted: October 25, 2024 | Updated: February 22, 2025

After updating to iOS 18, many users are experiencing issues with their iPhone 16 not connecting to Wi-Fi, showing a "no internet connection" message. Despite trying various online fixes, the problem persists. If you’re facing this issue and need help, you’re not alone. Let’s find some solutions together!

What cause this problem iOS 18

Level Normal Based on Software

Solutions

Solution 1: Turn Off "Private Wi-Fi Address" and "Limit IP Address Tracking":

Go to the Wi-Fi settings of the connected network and disable these options. This has resolved the issue for some users.

Solution 2: Disable VPN:

If you have a VPN enabled, try turning it off. This has helped users reestablish their Wi-Fi connections.

Solution 3: Change Router Wireless Security Settings:

Adjust your router’s security settings to WPA2-PSK AES. This change has restored Wi-Fi connectivity for some users experiencing issues.

Solution 4: Update DNS Settings for VPN Users:
If you’re using NordVPN, follow these steps:

Open the Settings app.
Tap on Wi-Fi and ensure it’s enabled.
Select your Wi-Fi network and tap the blue “i” icon.
Tap Configure DNS and choose Manual.
Tap Add Server and enter these DNS addresses:

103.86.96.100
103.86.99.100

Adding these DNS addresses has fixed the problem for users with NordVPN.

Solution 5. Forget and Reconnect to the Network:

Forget the Wi-Fi network on your device.
Reset your network settings.
Reboot your router.
Reconnect to the Wi-Fi network.

This method has helped users who could connect to Wi-Fi but had no internet access.

Solution 6: Adjust MAC Address Rotation Settings:

iOS 18 includes a feature that rotates your Wi-Fi MAC address to reduce tracking. If you have an ACL (Access Control List) on your router allowing specific MAC addresses, turn off this rotating feature in your settings. This has resolved connectivity issues for some users.

Solution 7: Genius Bar Appointment:

Had similar issues after upgrading to the new iPhone 16 Pro Max. The initial restoration went fine, but then Wi-Fi wouldn’t connect or stay on. I used online support, but they couldn’t resolve it. At the Genius Bar, the technician fixed it in minutes—an installed Microsoft Defender was toggled on to "Connect On Demand," blocking app downloads. After switching that off, everything started connecting and downloading.

Solution 8: Reset Your Home Router:

A user found that resetting their home router fixed the connectivity issues, and it has been working well since. It’s worth a try if you’re still having problems.

By trying these solutions, you may be able to resolve your Wi-Fi connectivity issues after the iOS update.