Can iPads show Wi-Fi symbol without a connection?

Question

Level 1

4 points

Can iPads show Wi-Fi symbol without a connection?

We use iPads at work on our guest network which requires users to clear a captive portal before connecting. The iPads are supposed to be set to bypass the captive portal but we often have issues with them being in lost mode and offline between users

The iPads show the Wi-Fi symbol but I'm being told that sometimes iPads will show the symbol despite not being connected to Wi-Fi. I do not believe that is true. Can anyone confirm? Thanks

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPad (10th generation)

Posted on Mar 11, 2025 3:06 AM

Reply

Answer 1

LotusPilot

Level 10

309,473 points

Mar 11, 2025 3:58 PM in response to Jgol

The WiFi symbol indicates that your iPad has "associated" with (connected to) a WiFi network - however, the iPad will not necessarily be able to send or receive data.

Having successfully associated with a WiFi Access Point, the iPad must then obtain a valid IP and Default Gateway Address for the network - this usually obtained via a successful DHCP exchange - before the iPad will be able to exchange data.

If using a Captive Portal, the user must then complete the required steps to obtain access to the internet or other network resources.

Reply

Can iPads show Wi-Fi symbol without a connection?

Similar questions