Macs dont have a built-in network reset function, but you can still do it. There are two methods to reset your network 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.