Use Wi-Fi
If you are out of the house and need to connect your MacBook to the Internet you can use your iPhone's personal hotspot function. Having internet on the go for all your devices seems like more of a necessity than a luxury these days. Whether you’re travelling for business, getting work done at a coffee shop, or enjoying e-books and music on the beach, a mobile hotspot means you can access the internet on your laptop or tablet without needing a nearby Wi-Fi signal. With a hotspot, Wi-Fi is available for any devices you.
Learn how to connect to an open, secure or hidden Wi-Fi network. You can also create a new Wi-Fi network.
Mini Wifi Hotspot
Connect to a Wi-Fi network
Click in the menu bar, then choose a network. If Wi-Fi is off, click , then select Turn Wi-Fi On.*
If you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, a window might appear with terms and conditions you're asked to agree to before you can connect.
Connect to a secure Wi-Fi network
Secure Wi-Fi networks are password-protected and have by their names.
- Click in the menu bar. If Wi-Fi is off, click , then choose Turn Wi-Fi On.*
- Choose a network.
- Enter the password, then click Join. If you don't know the password to the Wi-Fi network, contact the network administrator.
Connect to a hidden network
- Click in the menu bar. If Wi-Fi is off, choose , then choose Turn Wi-Fi On.*
- Choose Join Other Network.
- Enter the network name. Make sure you enter the network name correctly.
- If the network is secure, choose the Security type, then enter the password.
- Click Join.
Learn what to do if you can't connect to a hidden network.
Create a Wi-Fi network
If you have Internet service at your location, you can connect an AirPort base station or a third-party router to your modem to create a Wi-Fi network. Use the setup guide for your AirPort base station, or check your third-party router's manual for help.
* If you don't see the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar, you can add it back. Choose Apple () menu > System Preferences, click Network, click Wi-Fi, then select 'Show Wi-Fi status in menu bar'.
Use Personal Hotspot
With most carrier plans, you can share the cellular data connection of your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular) with your Mac.
Learn how to set up Personal Hotspot.
Use Ethernet
To connect to the Internet over a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable between your router or modem and the Ethernet port on your Mac.
Some Macs require an Ethernet adapter like the Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, or the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter.
Mac Hotspot App
Learn more
Hotspot For Mac Mini Software
- Use recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points.