Unable to Connect to WiFi

Optimizing WiFi performance in challenging environments can be difficult due to several factors:

Long distances between clients and access points weaken signal strength, impacting connectivity and performance.

Dense environments with many access points cause interference and congestion, reducing overall network efficiency.

Complicated physical features like walls, floors, and other obstructions impede signal propagation, leading to dead zones and inconsistent coverage.

Legacy IoT devices, especially those operating on the crowded 2.4 GHz band, increase interference and connectivity issues.

Inability for client devices to connect to your WiFi SSID is often related to these environmental challenges or configuration errors. Follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve your issue.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Ensure the correct password is being entered when joining the WiFi network.
2. If RADIUS is being used for WPA2 Enterprise or WPA3 Enterprise, be sure it is properly configured and can be reached from your UniFi APs. Click here to learn more.
3. Ensure you have a signal strength better than -70dBm. This can be found in the Client Devices section of the UniFi Network application, or by using the WiFiman Mobile App (iOS / Android).
4. Ensure that the associated VLAN is properly tagged on all ports between the network gateway/DHCP server and all APs. Click here to learn more.
5. Update your UniFi APs. Click here to learn more.
6. Update the drivers on your client device. Contact their support if you have any questions.
7. Create a new WiFi using our default settings to ensure maximum compatibility with legacy clients. This includes:
   1. Fast Roaming - Legacy clients often do not support 802.11r Fast Transitions. Disable this for maximum compatibility.
   2. Minimum Data Rate - Legacy clients prefer lower data rates. Reduce this for maximum compatibility.
   3. WiFi Frequency - Legacy clients may not support 5 GHz or 6 GHz. Ensure your WiFi is being broadcasted on all frequency bands to maximize compatibility.

Optimize your WiFi environment to reduce interference and latency. Click here to learn more.

IoT Device Connectivity and Security Recommendations for the 2.4GHz Band

For optimal IoT device connectivity, it is crucial to understand the specific needs and limitations of these devices, particularly concerning network bands and security protocols.

Network Band Compatibility

5GHz may not be supported by all IoT devices, so we recommend limiting those devices to a 2.4GHz network if you are experiencing connectivity issues.

Recommended Security Protocol

WPA2 offers broader compatibility with IoT devices. WPA3 is not recommended for 2.4GHz networks due to compatibility issues (see above).

Protected Management Frames (PMF)

We recommend you disable PMF, as it can cause compatibility issues with some IoT clients. PMF is disabled by default for WPA2 networks, however it cannot be disabled for WPA2/3 and WPA3 networks. To check the status of the feature, go to Network Settings > WiFi, select a WiFi Network, and scroll to PMF under Advanced Settings.

Other Advanced Settings