How can I fix iPad Wi-Fi problems?

Some iPad users are having problems connecting to Wi-Fi networks. Apple has acknowledged the problem and recommends the following steps to improve Wi-Fi performance using the iPad.

Problems reported include:

Inability to locate a nearby Wi-Fi network
Weak or low Wi-Fi signal strength
No access to the Internet (Safari will not load web pages)

The iPad features two Wi-Fi antennas located behind the Apple logo on the back of the unit. Before taking your iPad to the nearest Apple Store for further support, try the following:

1. Verify your Wi-Fi router is connected and turned on.

2. If your network is not configured to broadcast the network name, navigate to Settings -> Wi-Fi -> Other and manually enter the network name, security and password.

3. Move closer to the Wi-Fi router or hotspot.

4. Eliminate sources of interference including wireless speakers or metal objects, etc.

5. Remove cases or attachments that could interfere with a Wi-Fi signal.

6. Restart the iPad.

7. Reset network settings in Settings -> General -> Reset -> Reset Network Settings.

8. If you are using multiple WEP keys on your Wi-Fi router, try configuring your Wi-Fi router to use only a single WEP key.

9. Power cycle (turn off and then on again) your Wi-Fi router.

10. Disable wireless encryption or security on the Wi-Fi router to rule out encryption issues. If this resolves the issue, try using a different encryption or security protocol.

For more details see Apple's support document iPad: Troubleshooting Wi-Fi networks and connections.

UPDATE

Apple has released another support document iPad: Issues connecting to Wi-Fi networks. Additional suggestions for Wi-Fi troubleshooting are as follows:

1. Update your Wi-Fi router firmware to the latest version
2. Use WPA or WPA2 wireless security
3. Increase screen brightness above the minimum and turn auto-brightness OFF
4. Renew your IP address by selecting Renew Lease under Settings -> Wi-Fi -> [Your Network]