I am having problems with my Wifi and this is my second iPad. I get one bar on the wifi signal strength even when I stand next the my Airport Extreme. About 10% of the time the signal strength goes to 3 bars, and then back to 1 bar. When I called Apple the first time, I was told to take it to the Apple Store. In fact, I was told that about 20% of the new iPad's are having wifi issues. At the Apple store they tested the iPad and told me its a hardware problem and exchanged the unit. Although the second iPad is better than the first, I am still experiencing wifi signal issues. A friend has an iPad and he has no wifi issues. Since I am not sure that this is a software issue, I intend to return the second iPad and wait for Apple to fix the problem before I get another one.
Instead of changing the ipad's wifi configuration to use static ip address, there is maybe another way to resolve the issue (at home), change the router's dhcp (lease) renew timeframe to never expired (kind of setting static ip); you need to check the reference manual for the specific value.
By doing so (if it works), then you don't need to switch ipad's wifi configuration back and forth...
My problems were not with connecting to my router, they were the variations between no service and full bars while staying in the same place. This is a common problem and Apple knows it. since I purchased at the Charleston store, I took it back and the manager refunded my purchase price in full with now problem and she freely acknowledged the problems with wifi. the performance was unacceptable--as to those who are being charged a re-stocking fee, g to a manager or supervisor--they will most likely help--other methods is to protest to your credit card carrier and, as a last resort offer the supervisor a choice--waive the fee or you will write a letter to your local newspaper about the problems (yes, a real newspaper, not a blog).
I love the Ipad and have two 3G's on order so that I do not have to depnd on the wifi which, I am sure, will eventually be fixed
As to the problem with various router, do they really expect me to go to a Starbucks and ask to re-configure their system so that I can connect? What were thy thinking whn they put this product out in this condition?
Overall, it's a great device, but it definitely has WiFi problems. Unquestionably weaker signal strength than any of my other devices (7 total in the home). Occasional drops and connection/password requests. Luckily, the room in which I use it the most has sufficiently strong and reliable signal reception to keep me satisfied, at least until a fix is found and offered in a future software/firmware upgrade.
Given the very high profile marketing approach Apple took with this rollout, I must say I'm amazed that they didn't adequately test the iPad in such obvious environments.
It certainly has a much weaker signal then my Macbook Pro. There's a wifi I connect to from my car when I park in a certain spot and with the MBP it's is strong and refreshes pages quickly. With the IPad it just about gets the signal and is slow. With a strong signal like in my apartment or work I have zero problems. I'm also using a Verizon miff and that totally rocks!
I'm not having any problems until I go to YouTube. Then the iPad acts like it's on dial-up. Not sure what to do but the spouse is extremely frustrated and I'm the one who is supposed to fix everything. 🙂