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Step-by-Step Guide: Restoring Defaults in Your macOS Network Preferences

What to Know

• Wi-Fi icon > your Wi-Fi name >Details >Forget This Network >Remove > re-add your connection settings.
• Or:/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ >Go > delete select files.
• Macs don’t have an option called Reset Network Settings, though the steps above perform the same function.

This article will walk you through the steps for how to reset network settings on a Mac. Unlike resetting network settings on an iPhone or Windows 10 computer, there’s no specific function on Macs for refreshing internet and wireless connection preferences, but it can still be done via the two methods shown below.

How Do You Reset Network Settings in macOS?

There are two different ways to reset the network settings on a Mac. The first method is relatively simple and should be tried first if you’re experiencing any connectivity or internet issues.

The second process for resetting your network settings is safe, though it is a bit more complex and only recommended if the first method didn’t work.

Reset Mac Network Settings: The Easy Way

The first way to reset a Mac’s network settings is to delete your Wi-Fi connection and then add it again. Here’s how to do it.

Macs running macOS Ventura (13) and earlier will selectSystem Preferences >Network >Wi-Fi connection >- (Minus ) sign >Apply .

1. Click theWi-Fi icon in menu bar.
   
2. ChooseWi-Fi Settings .
   You can also get to this area fromApple icon >System Settings >Network >Wi-Fi .
   
3. SelectDetails beside the network to forget.

4. ChooseForget This Network at the bottom left.

5. ClickRemove to confirm the deletion.

Make sure that you have yourWi-Fi login information . You will need to re-enter it after the next step.

6. Finally,re-add your Wi-Fi connection from the Wi-Fi menu.

Reset Mac Network Settings: The Complicated Way

If you’re still experiencing connectivity issues or bugs after trying the above tip, it can be worth giving this second method a go. This process essentially deletes certain system files relating to network settings that will then be restored automatically after restarting your Mac.

1. Click theWi-Fi internet symbol in the menu bar.
   
2. Click the switch to turn Wi-Fi off.

3. With Wi-Fi off, clickGo .

4. From the Go menu, clickGo to Folder .

5. Type**/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/** into the text field and Enter.

6. Select the following five files:

• com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
• com.apple.network.identification.plist orcom.apple.network.eapolclient/configuration.plist
• com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
• NetworkInterfaces.plist
• preferences.plist
  Depending on your macOS version, you may not see all of the above files.
  

7. Command+click to choose the select files, selectCopy , then right-click the desktop and selectPaste .

8. Right-click the files in their original location and selectMove to Trash to delete them.

If prompted to confirm the deletion with a password or an action on your Apple Watch, do so.

9. Restart your Mac as usual and turn its Wi-Fi back on. The deleted files should be recreated within their original location, and all your network settings should now be reset.

If everything is working fine, feel free to delete the copies of the files on your desktop.

What Will Resetting My Network Settings Do?

When youreset a device’s network settings , you’re deleting all saved preferences and settings relating to internet and wireless functionality.
Doing so is a common strategy for fixing Wi-Fi or other networking glitches preventing a computer, smart device, or video game console from working properly.
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FAQ

• How do I reset network settings on an iPhone?
  Toreset network settings on an iPhone , go to your iPhone’sSettings app and tapGeneral >Transfer or Reset iPhone >Reset >Reset Network Settings . This action will also reset all your Wi-Fi networks and passwords, as well as prior cellular and VPN settings.
• How do I reset network settings on Windows 10?
  Toreset network settings on Windows 10 , go to your Windows 10 Start menu and selectSettings > Network and Internet > Status . Then, clickNetwork Reset , review the Network Reset information, selectReset now to continue, and follow the prompts.
• How do I reset network settings on an Android phone?
  While exact instructions may vary according to your Android device, the process will be similar. Go to yourSettings app and selectSystem >Reset Options . TapReset Wi-Fi, Mobile, & Bluetooth orReset Network Settings , depending on your Android version.

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