Forget Wi-Fi Network on iPhone/iPad - Easy Guide

Managing Wi-Fi Network Memory on iOS Devices

Typically, Apple’s iOS operating system retains a record of Wi-Fi networks to which your device has previously connected. This allows for automatic reconnection when those networks are within range. While generally convenient, this functionality can sometimes lead to unwanted behavior.

For users who consistently utilize a single Wi-Fi network, the ability to manage remembered networks offers limited benefit. However, if you’ve ever connected to a neighbor’s network, a temporary network at work, or operate within a home with multiple access points, you may have experienced automatic connections to the incorrect network.

Understanding iOS Network Prioritization

When several Wi-Fi networks are detectable in the same vicinity, iOS prioritizes networks based on their SSID name—favoring those that appear earlier alphabetically. Even if a network has a weaker signal strength, it may be selected if its name precedes others. Consider renaming networks, if you have administrative privileges, to influence this prioritization.

Alternatively, you can instruct iOS to disregard specific networks altogether. The following steps detail how to accomplish this.

How to Forget a Wi-Fi Network

Begin by opening the Settings application on your iOS device.

Select Wi-Fi to display a list of available networks.

Locate the network you wish to remove from your device’s memory and tap the corresponding information (Info) icon.

Tap the Forget This Network option.

A confirmation prompt will appear. Confirm your choice by tapping Forget.

Reconnecting and Future Behavior

Once a network has been forgotten, iOS will cease to automatically connect to it. The network will remain visible in your list of available networks.

You can manually rejoin the network at any time by selecting it from the list. However, you will be prompted to re-enter the password if the network is secured. Be aware that reconnecting will re-enable automatic joining, requiring you to repeat the "forget" process if desired.