How to Fix Mac Mini M2 and M1 Wi-Fi Connectivity Issue

fix mac mini m2 and m1 wifi issue

Experiencing Wi-Fi issues on your Mac Mini M2 or M1 can be frustrating, especially when you need a stable connection for your daily tasks. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the solutions to help you fix Wi-Fi issues on your Mac Mini M2 or M1. Let’s get started!

Solutions to Fix Mac Mini M2 and M1 Wi-Fi Connectivity Issue

1. Separate Wi-Fi Network SSIDs

Create separate Wi-Fi network SSIDs for 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands to enhance stability and performance, preventing potential interference and connectivity issues.

  • Access your router’s settings by typing its IP address into your browser (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
  • Log in using your router’s username and password.
  • Locate the wireless settings and create separate SSIDs for the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.
  • Save the settings and restart your router.

2. Connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Network

To connect to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, select the designated 2.4GHz SSID from your device’s Wi-Fi menu.

  • Click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar of your Mac Mini machine.
  • Select the 2.4GHz SSID you created earlier and enter the password to connect.

3. Disable Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL)

Disabling Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL) can enhance Wi-Fi performance, but may affect features like AirDrop; use Terminal commands to toggle it on or off.

Press Command + Space to open Spotlight.

Type Terminal and press Enter to open it.

Type the following command to disable AWDL:

sudo ifconfig awdl0 down

Press Enter and provide your admin password when prompted.

Note: Disabling AWDL will cause some functions like AirDrop to stop working. You can re-enable AWDL using this command:

sudo ifconfig awdl0 up

4. Run Wireless Diagnostics

Use Wireless Diagnostics to identify and resolve Wi-Fi issues efficiently.

  • Press Command + Space to open Spotlight.
  • Type Wireless Diagnostics to open it.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the diagnostic process.

5. Forget and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi Network

Remove the Wi-Fi network from your device’s saved list and reconnect, ensuring a fresh connection and potentially resolving any lingering connectivity issues. To forget current network that you’re using, follow these steps:

  • Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar, then select Wi-Fi settings.
  • Click Details next to the network you’re using and select Forget This Network, then click Remove to confirm.
  • Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar again, then select your Wi-Fi network.
  • Enter your Wi-Fi password and click Join to reconnect to Wi-Fi.

To forget a network you aren’t currently using:

  • Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar, then select Wi-Fi settings.
  • Scroll down and click Advanced.
  • Click the 3 dots icon (…) next to the network, choose Remove From List.
  • Ensure Auto-Join is enabled.

6. Reset Network Settings

Reset network settings to reset connections, addressing possible conflicts or errors.

  • Open System Settings and click on Network.
  • Select Wi-Fi option on the right.
  • Click Details, change the settings as needed, then click OK.
  • Click Apply to save the changes.

7. Consider Using a Third-Party Router

If you’re using a Wi-Fi router that doesn’t allow you to separate the Wi-Fi bands, consider purchasing a third-party router that offers this feature and other advanced features and customization options.

Following these steps should help you fix the Wi-Fi issues on your Mac Mini. Separating the Wi-Fi bands and disabling AWDL seem to be effective solutions for many users.