Connect iPad to the internet

Connect your iPad to the internet by using an available Wi-Fi network. Wi-Fi + Cellular models can also connect to the internet by using a cellular network.

Connect iPad to a Wi-Fi network

Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, then turn on Wi-Fi.
Tap one of the following:
- A network: Enter the password, if required.
- Other: Joins a hidden network. Enter the name of the hidden network, security type, and password.

If appears at the top of the screen, iPad is connected to a Wi-Fi network. (To verify this, open Safari to view a webpage.) iPad reconnects when you return to the same location.

Join a Personal Hotspot

If an iPhone or an iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular) is sharing a Personal Hotspot, you can use its cellular internet connection.

Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, then choose the name of the device sharing the Personal Hotspot.

If asked for a password on your iPad, enter the password shown in Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot on the device sharing the Personal Hotspot.

Connect iPad to a cellular network (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)

Your iPad automatically connects to your carrierʼs cellular data network if a Wi-Fi network isnʼt available. If iPad doesn’t connect, check the following:

Verify that your SIM is activated and unlocked. See Set up cellular service on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models).
Go to Settings > Cellular Data.
Verify that Cellular Data is turned on.

When you need an internet connection, iPad does the following, in order, until the connection is made:

Tries to connect to the most recently used available Wi-Fi network
Shows a list of Wi-Fi networks in range and connects to the one you choose
Connects to your carrier’s cellular data network (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)
On an iPad that supports 5G, iPad may use your 5G cellular data instead of Wi-Fi. If so, you see Using 5G Cellular For Internet below the Wi-Fi network’s name. To switch back to Wi-Fi, tap next to the network name, then tap Use Wi-Fi for Internet.

Note: If a Wi-Fi connection to the internet isn’t available, apps and services may transfer data over your carrier’s cellular network, which may result in additional fees. Contact your carrier for information about your cellular data plan rates. To manage cellular data usage, see View or change cellular data settings on iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular models).

Helpful?

iPad User Guide

Connect iPad to the internet

Connect iPad to a Wi-Fi network

Join a Personal Hotspot

Connect iPad to a cellular network (Wi-Fi + Cellular models)