Mac WiFi Keeps Disconnecting After Sleep — Network Connection Drops Repeatedly

Fix Mac WiFi disconnecting after waking from sleep, requiring manual reconnection, or failing to rejoin the preferred wireless network. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: macOS disconnects WiFi during sleep to save power and should automatically reconnect on wake. Failure to reconnect after wake is a common issue especially after macOS updates. The WiFi configuration database and preferences can become corrupted over time. Multiple saved networks with overlapping ranges can confuse the auto-join priority. DNS and DHCP lease issues can make it appear that WiFi is connected but not working. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: WiFi preferences file corrupted after a macOS update. DHCP lease not renewing properly after wake from sleep. WiFi network priority list not configured correctly with multiple saved networks. Power Nap or Wake for network access settings interfering with WiFi sleep/wake cycle. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Renew DHCP lease: System Settings > Network > WiFi > Details > TCP/IP > Renew DHCP Lease. Remove and re-add the WiFi network: System Settings > Network > WiFi > Details > Forget This Network, then rejoin. Delete WiFi preferences: remove files from /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ starting with 'com.apple.airport' and 'com.apple.network'. Create a new Network Location: System Settings > Network > Location > Edit Locations > add new location. Reset network settings: System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset Network Settings (Ventura+). If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

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