Level 1 (11 points)

My Mac connects to the Wi-Fi network still with a password lock

Hello to everyone. I have a Mac mini Apple M1 chip, 16 GB RAM and Mac OS Sequoia 15.7.9

For security reasons I connect my Mac to the internet via a wired connection (Ethernet). I only use Wi-Fi to send documents to my printer, and it is necessary to enter an administrator password to use it.

However, after I print a document and switch off the Wi-Fi network again with my password, randomly (after I turn on the computer again a few hours or a day later) the Wi-Fi network activates itself as if there was no password.

Days after, also randomly, the Wi-Fi network icon appears as available, but when checking the system settings the network is properly blocked. Does anyone know what’s going on?

Posted on Nov 3, 2026 11:14 AM

4 replies

den.thed

Level 10 (99,154 points)

Nov 3, 2026 12:58 PM in response to Aorleione

1) The Wi-Fi connection with your Router is equally secure as the Ethernet connection.

2) Your Mac relies on and requires Wi-Fi for AirPrint and Location Services.

What I do is set Ethernet first in the Service Order and Wi-Fi second in the Service Order. Then leave the Wi- Fi on for Printing and Location Services.

MartinR

Level 7 (27,833 points)

Nov 3, 2026 3:07 PM in response to den.thed

Regarding the answer you got from den.thed ... it's good advice.

+1 👍

Also, your Mac normally remembers WiFi networks that you join, and once joined you normally do not have to re-enter the password for that network on subsequent joins; known networks are joined automatically. Exactly what do you mean by "the network is properly blocked?"

Aorleione Author

Level 1 (11 points)

Nov 4, 2026 6:56 AM in response to den.thed

Hello den.thed. I took this advice and there are no longer any erratic behaviors. Thanks, this was really useful.

den.thed

Level 10 (99,154 points)

Nov 4, 2026 9:49 AM in response to Aorleione

You're welcome.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256388297