Overview
Sometimes, your device may have trouble connecting to the Wi-Fi network due to saved settings, outdated credentials, or minor connection glitches. Forgetting and reconnecting to the network can help resolve these issues.
This guide walks you through how to forget and then reconnect to a Wi-Fi network on all major device types.
Apple iOS (iPhone & iPad)
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi
- Tap the “i” icon next to the network name
- Tap “Forget This Network”, then confirm
- Go back to the Wi-Fi list
- Select the network name again
- Enter the Wi-Fi password if prompted
Android Devices (Steps may vary slightly by brand)
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Internet or Wi-Fi
- Tap the gear icon or the network name
- Tap “Forget”
- Return to the Wi-Fi list
- Tap the network again and re-enter the password
Windows 10/11
- Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar
- Click “Network & Internet settings”
- Go to Wi-Fi > Manage Known Networks
- Select the network and click “Forget”
- Go back to the Wi-Fi icon
- Click the network name and reconnect with your Wi-Fi password
Mac (macOS)
- Click the Wi-Fi icon in the top menu
- Open Network Preferences
- Click Advanced... (bottom right)
- Find the network in the list and click the “–” button to remove it
- Click OK, then Apply
- Reconnect from the Wi-Fi menu by selecting the network and entering the Wi-Fi password
Game Consoles & Smart TVs
(Varies by brand – general steps below)
- Go to Settings > Network or Internet Setup
- Locate the list of known or saved networks
- Choose the network and select Forget or Delete
- Reconnect by scanning for available networks
- Enter the Wi-Fi password to join again
If your console doesn't have a "Forget" option, restarting it and reconnecting will often prompt a fresh connection.
Why Forgetting Helps
- Clears outdated credentials or corrupted network data
- Forces the device to establish a new, clean connection
- Often fixes slow speeds, failed connections, or looping logins