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Radical - Technology & Business Blog | Lifestyle & Home Decor
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Home INTERNET

How to Reset Network Settings on a Mac for Better Connectivity

johnson by johnson
August 21, 2025
in INTERNET
5 min read
0
Reset Mac Network Settings

If your Mac keeps dropping Wi-Fi, refuses to connect to the internet, or struggles with Bluetooth devices, the issue may not be with your router it could be your Mac’s network settings. Resetting network settings on a Mac can resolve connectivity problems and restore smooth performance. While macOS doesn’t have a single “reset network settings” button like iOS, there are several ways to refresh and rebuild network preferences.

In this guide, we’ll explore different methods to reset Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth settings on a Mac so you can fix common issues and get back online.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • When Should You Reset Network Settings on a Mac?
  • Method 1: Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi Networks
  • Method 2: Reset Network Preferences Manually
  • Method 3: Delete Network Configuration Files
  • Method 4: Reset PRAM/NVRAM and SMC
  • Method 5: Use Terminal Commands (Advanced)
  • Additional Troubleshooting Tips
  • Conclusion

When Should You Reset Network Settings on a Mac?

Before diving into the methods, it’s important to know when a reset is useful. You may want to reset network settings if you’re experiencing:

  • Mac Wi-Fi not connecting to known networks

  • Frequent Wi-Fi disconnections or slow internet

  • Incorrect IP or DNS settings causing loading errors

  • Trouble pairing or reconnecting Bluetooth devices

  • Problems switching between Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections

If any of these sound familiar, a reset can often solve the issue.

Method 1: Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi Networks

One of the simplest ways to fix Wi-Fi issues on Mac is by removing saved networks and reconnecting:

  1. Open System Settings from the Apple menu.

  2. Go to Network > Wi-Fi.

  3. Click Known Networks.

  4. Select the Wi-Fi you want to reset and choose Forget This Network.

  5. Reconnect to the Wi-Fi by entering the password again.

This refreshes your connection with updated settings.

Method 2: Reset Network Preferences Manually

Another option is to reset network preferences directly in macOS:

  1. Open System Settings > Network.

  2. Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

  3. Click the minus (-) button to delete the network service.

  4. Click the plus (+) button to add it back.

By deleting and re-adding the service, you’re essentially resetting Mac network preferences for that connection.

Method 3: Delete Network Configuration Files

If issues persist, deleting network configuration files forces macOS to generate new ones:

  1. Disconnect from Wi-Fi.

  2. Open Finder and press Command + Shift + G.

  3. Enter:

    /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/
  4. Locate and delete these files:

    • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist

    • com.apple.network.identification.plist

    • NetworkInterfaces.plist

    • preferences.plist

  5. Restart your Mac.

When macOS restarts, it will create fresh network configuration files, which often resolves stubborn connectivity problems.

Method 4: Reset PRAM/NVRAM and SMC

Some network-related settings are stored in your Mac’s NVRAM/PRAM and SMC. Resetting them can help.

  • For Intel-based Macs:

    1. Shut down your Mac.

    2. Turn it on and immediately press Option + Command + P + R for about 20 seconds.

    3. Release the keys and let the Mac restart.

  • For Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, etc.):
    NVRAM and SMC reset automatically during restart, so a simple reboot usually works.

Method 5: Use Terminal Commands (Advanced)

If you’re comfortable using Terminal, there are a few commands that can reset parts of your network configuration:

  • Flush DNS cache:

    sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
  • Renew DHCP lease:

    sudo ifconfig en0 down
    sudo ifconfig en0 up
  • Remove Wi-Fi configuration (forces reset):

    sudo rm /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/com.apple.airport.preferences.plist

After running these commands, restart your Mac and reconnect to Wi-Fi.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

If resetting network settings doesn’t solve the problem, try these extra steps:

  • Restart your router or modem.

  • Update macOS to the latest version.

  • Turn off Bluetooth if it interferes with Wi-Fi signals.

  • Test with another network to see if the issue is with your Mac or the router.

Conclusion

Knowing how to reset network settings on a Mac can save you from hours of frustration when dealing with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth issues. Whether you simply forget and reconnect to networks, delete system configuration files, or use Terminal commands, these methods refresh your Mac’s connectivity setup and solve many common problems.

Tags: Reset Mac Network Settings
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johnson

johnson

I am a content writer with 5 years of experience and a degree in English Literature. Specializing in lifestyle, food, and health, she creates engaging, research-driven content.

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