How to Reset Network Settings on a Mac

Unlike iPhones or Windows computers, Macs don't have a direct function to reset networks and resolve certain issues. However, you can still do so. There are two methods: deleting the Wi-Fi network from the settings or removing certain system files. Here's how.

Delete and Re-add Wi-Fi Connections

The first method for resetting your Mac's network settings is to delete and re-add the Wi-Fi connection.

For Macs running macOS Ventura or earlier, choose System Preferences > Network > Wi-Fi connection > press the minus sign to remove connected networks.

Step 1:

Tap the WiFi icon , then select Wi-Fi Settings . Next to the name of the connected WiFi network, tap Details .

Step 2:

Click on Forget This Network to remove the connection to this network. Finally, click Remove to remove this connected network from the list.

How to Restore Network Settings on a Mac

Step 1:

Click the WiFi icon in the menu bar , then turn off your WiFi connection . Continue by clicking Go .

Step 2:

The list will appear; the user selects "Go to Folder ." Then, enter the following content into the box and press Enter.

/Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/

Step 3:

Select the following files:

• com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
• com.apple.network.identification.plist
• com.apple.network.eapolclient/configuration.plist
• com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
• NetworkInterfaces.plist
• preferences.plist

Please note that depending on your macOS version, not all of the above files may be present.

Press and hold the Command key and click to select the files , choose Copy, then right-click on the desktop and select Paste .

Step 4:

Right-click the original files and select Move to Trash to delete them. Restart your Mac as usual and turn on Wi-Fi. The deleted files will automatically be restored to their original location and your network settings will be restored.