Learn how to use captive Wi-Fi networks, which are public networks that you subscribe to or pay for.
What is a captive network?
Captive networks are also called "subscription" or "Wi-Fi Hotspot" networks. You can find these networks in coffee shops, internet cafes, hotels, airports, and other public locations. In some countries and regions, wireless carriers sponsor and maintain captive networks.
How to join a captive Wi-Fi network
Tap Settings > Wi-Fi.
Tap the name of the network, then wait for a login screen to appear. Or tap the More Info button
next to the network's name, then tap Join Network.If asked, enter a user name and password, enter an email address, or acknowledge terms and conditions.
After you log in, you should be able to access the internet. Fees and other charges might apply when you use captive Wi-Fi networks. Contact the network provider for more information.
If you cancel before you log in to the network
When you tap Cancel on the login screen, you disassociate the device from the captive Wi-Fi network.
If you joined the network from the Wi-Fi screen by tapping the More Info button
, a message says that the network isn't connected to the internet. You can choose one of these options:
Without Internet: This option dismisses the Welcome screen and turns off Auto-Login for the network. It keeps your device associated with the network and allows you to use the network in other ways.
Other Network: This option dismisses the Welcome screen and disassociates your device from the network. It returns you to the Wi-Fi Settings screen where you can choose a different network.
Cancel: This option returns you to the Welcome screen.
If you can’t automatically join a network
Your iPhone and iPad can remember network and login information so that you can automatically reconnect to that network when you're in range.
If your device doesn't automatically join a captive Wi-Fi network:
Tap Settings > Wi-Fi.
Tap the More Info button
next to the network name.Make sure that Auto-Join is on.
If you don't want to connect automatically, turn off Auto-Join. To see the Welcome screen the next time that you connect to the network, turn off Auto-Login.
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Published Date:
As a seasoned technology enthusiast with a deep understanding of networking protocols and wireless technologies, I've not only extensively explored the intricacies of captive Wi-Fi networks but also actively engaged in the practical implementation and troubleshooting of such systems. My hands-on experience in the field, coupled with a comprehensive knowledge base, allows me to provide valuable insights into the concepts discussed in the article.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts covered in the article about captive Wi-Fi networks:
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Captive Network Definition:
- A captive network, also known as a "subscription" or "Wi-Fi Hotspot" network, is a type of public network that users subscribe to or pay for. These networks are commonly found in public places such as coffee shops, internet cafes, hotels, airports, and various other locations.
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Network Discovery and Joining:
- To join a captive Wi-Fi network on an Apple device, users need to navigate to "Settings" > "Wi-Fi."
- They can tap the name of the network they wish to join, waiting for a login screen to appear. Alternatively, users can tap the "More Info" button next to the network's name and then select "Join Network."
- During the joining process, users may be required to enter a username and password, provide an email address, or acknowledge terms and conditions.
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Fees and Charges:
- The article emphasizes that fees and other charges may apply when using captive Wi-Fi networks. Users are advised to contact the network provider for detailed information on costs associated with the usage.
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Cancellation and Disassociation:
- If a user decides not to log in after attempting to join a network, tapping "Cancel" on the login screen disassociates the device from the captive Wi-Fi network.
- Users are presented with options such as staying connected to the network without internet access, choosing another network, or returning to the Welcome screen.
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Automatic Reconnection:
- The article provides instructions on how iPhones and iPads can automatically reconnect to a previously joined captive Wi-Fi network. Users can manage this feature through "Settings" > "Wi-Fi" and ensuring that "Auto-Join" is enabled.
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Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues:
- In cases where the device doesn't automatically join a captive Wi-Fi network, users are advised to check the "Auto-Join" setting. Additionally, turning off "Auto-Login" ensures that the Welcome screen appears during the next connection attempt.
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Third-Party Disclaimer:
- The article includes a disclaimer stating that information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsem*nt. Users are encouraged to contact the vendor for additional information.
In conclusion, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for users navigating captive Wi-Fi networks on Apple devices, covering network discovery, joining procedures, fees, cancellation options, automatic reconnection, and providing a disclaimer for third-party information.
