When you use an iOS app or feature that uses the Internet, your iPhone, iPad, or iPod attempts to connect to the Internet as follows:
- Your device connects to your current Wi-Fi network if available.
- If not available, your device attempts to connect to any nearby Wi-Fi networks you have previously used.
- If there are no previous Wi-Fi networks in range, a list of available Wi-Fi networks appears. You can tap to join a Wi-Fi network, and if necessary enter the password to join it.
Note: Wi-Fi networks that require a password are indicated by a padlock icon
next to them. - If no Wi-Fi networks are available or if you choose not to join one, iPhone and iPad (cellular models) connect using an available cellular data network.
Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi is often faster than cellular data networks, but may not be available in many locations.
- To locate nearby Wi-Fi networks, tap Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap a network to join it.
- Depending on the Wi-Fi network, it may be necessary to enter a password.
- When connected to a Wi-Fi network, the Wi-Fi icon
in the status bar displays connection strength. The more bars you see, the stronger the connection. - Many Wi-Fi networks can be used free of charge, but some require a fee or subscription to use.
If you are experiencing difficulty joining a Wi-Fi network, see Troubleshooting Wi-Fi networks and connections for more information.
Note: iOS devices sold in China may use the term Wireless LAN (WLAN) instead of Wi-Fi. Not all China iPhone models support WLAN; see this article for more information.
Cellular data networks (Telstra , Optus etc)
- Cellular data networks provide Internet connectivity using the cellular network. See Understanding cellular data networks for more information.
- When your iPhone or iPad (cellular model) is connected a cellular data network, the status bar will display 4G, 3G, E, or °, depending on your iOS device and your carrier’s network capabilities.
- When traveling internationally, you may be able to use a cellular data network from another carrier. Roaming charges may apply.
- You can adjust cellular network settings on iPhone in Settings > General > Network; on iPad the settings are located in Settings > Cellular Data.
- Depending on the carrier, iPad users may sign up for monthly data plans from Settings > Cellular Data. For more information see How to set up a cellular data account.
If you are experiencing difficulty joining a cellular data network, see Troubleshooting a cellular data connection for more information.
