How to Connect Your iPad to Wi-Fi During Initial Setup

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro (M4)
You will need
iPad, Wi-Fi network name, Wi-Fi password

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Power on the device and select language

    Press and hold the top power button until the Apple logo appears on the display. Swipe up or press the Home button when prompted, then select your preferred language and country or region to begin the configuration sequence.

  2. 30 sec

    Proceed to the Wi-Fi setup screen

    Follow the on-screen prompts for Quick Start or manual configuration. When you reach the Choose a Wi-Fi Network screen, the iPad will automatically scan for available signals in your immediate range.

    Note: If you do not see your network, tap 'Other Network' to enter the SSID manually.
  3. 30 sec

    Select your network and enter credentials

    Locate your preferred wireless network name in the list and tap it. Input your network password using the on-screen keyboard, then tap the Join button located at the top right of the prompt.

    Note: Ensure you are using the correct character case for your password.
  4. 1 min

    Confirm the connection

    Wait for the blue checkmark to appear next to your network name. Once the connection is established, the iPad will automatically move to the Data & Privacy screen, signaling successful activation with Apple servers.

    Note: If a 'Could not connect' error occurs, verify your password or restart your router.