My Mac connects to the Wi-Fi network still with a password lock

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Level 1

5 points

My Mac connects to the Wi-Fi network still with a password lock

Hello to everyone. I have a Mac mini Apple M1 chip, 16 GB RAM and Mac OS Sequoia 15.7.9

For security reasons I connect my Mac to the internet via a wired connection (Ethernet). I only use Wi-Fi to send documents to my printer, and it is necessary to enter an administrator password to use it.

However, after I print a document and switch off the Wi-Fi network again with my password, randomly (after I turn on the computer again a few hours or a day later) the Wi-Fi network activates itself as if there was no password.

Days after, also randomly, the Wi-Fi network icon appears as available, but when checking the system settings the network is properly blocked. Does anyone know what’s going on?

Mac mini (M1, 2020)

Posted on Nov 3, 2026 11:14 AM

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Answer 1

den.thed

Level 10

98,946 points

Nov 3, 2026 12:58 PM in response to Aorleione

1) The Wi-Fi connection with your Router is equally secure as the Ethernet connection.

2) Your Mac relies on and requires Wi-Fi for AirPrint and Location Services.

What I do is set Ethernet first in the Service Order and Wi-Fi second in the Service Order. Then leave the Wi- Fi on for Printing and Location Services.

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Answer 2

MartinR

Level 7

27,659 points

Nov 3, 2026 3:07 PM in response to den.thed

Regarding the answer you got from den.thed ... it's good advice.

+1 👍

Also, your Mac normally remembers WiFi networks that you join, and once joined you normally do not have to re-enter the password for that network on subsequent joins; known networks are joined automatically. Exactly what do you mean by "the network is properly blocked?"

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