MacBook Air M4 WiFi Not Working

📡 Step 1: Check if WiFi is Actually On

1. Click the WiFi icon in the menu bar (top-right of screen)
2. If it shows "WiFi: Off" or a crossed-out WiFi symbol, click Turn WiFi On
3. Wait 10 seconds for networks to appear
4. Try connecting to your network

🔄 Step 2: Forget and Reconnect to Your Network

1. Click WiFi icon → Select your network name
2. Click the "i" information icon next to your network
3. Click Forget This Network
4. Go back to WiFi menu and select the same network
5. Enter your WiFi password (all characters must be exact)
6. Click Join

🌐 Step 3: Restart Your WiFi Router

Often the router, not the MacBook, is the problem:

1. Unplug your WiFi router (pull the power cable)
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug it back in and wait 2-3 minutes for it to fully boot
4. On your MacBook, reconnect to the network

⚙️ Step 4: Reset Network Settings

1. Apple Menu → System Settings → General → Reset
2. Click Reset (next to "Reset network settings")
3. You'll be prompted to enter your password and confirm
4. Your MacBook will forget all WiFi networks and reset network drivers
5. After restart, reconnect to your WiFi network from scratch

🔧 Step 5: Clear WiFi Cache

1. Open Finder → Go → Go to Folder
2. Paste: ~/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration and press Enter
3. Look for files starting with "com.apple.airport" or "com.apple.wifi"
4. Drag them to Trash
5. Restart your MacBook
6. WiFi should reconnect automatically

📱 Step 6: Update macOS

1. Apple Menu → System Settings → General → Software Update
2. Install any available updates
3. Restart after updating
4. Test WiFi connection

🛠️ Step 7: Hardware Issues

• WiFi antenna failure: The WiFi chip or antenna on the logic board died
• Water damage: Moisture in the WiFi module prevents connection
• Loose antenna connector: The internal antenna flex cable disconnected

Cost: WiFi module replacement runs $150-250.