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Level 1

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iMac does not connect to wireless network automatically when it starts

I just got a new Intel Core 2 Duo iMac 20". Everything is working great. I've been reading about people having problems with wireless connection with their Intel iMacs. Fortunately, my wireless connection works fine and the internet speed is fine too. The problem I'm having is that when I turn the computer on, it does not recognize the wireless network and connect automatically. Once I type in the Network Name/Password, it works great. Even when it wakes up from sleeping mode, it's fine.

When I turn on my PowerBook G4, it recognizes the wireless network and connects right away. I checked the setting on both computers and they seem to be same.

My goal is to turn on the iMac and have it connect to the wireless network without having to enter the Network Name/Password manually each time the computer turns on. I know it's possible since my PowerBook does it.

I searched the forum without any luck. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you everyone.

iMac, G5, PowerBook G4, Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Posted on Nov 15, 2006 9:19 PM

76 replies

Mar 4, 2007 11:55 PM in response to Daryl Edelstein

Daryl,

Did you tried installing 'Airport Extreme Update 2007-001' ?

Here is a download link : http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/apple/firmware_hardware/airportextremeupda te2007001.html

It fixed the reconnect problem for most of us.

If it doesn't you may try (by prioriry order) :
- Remove any network listed in 'Prefered Network' in Airport settings in Preferences' 'Network' panel. Check the option 'Auto add connected networks' (at least until connected).
- Run a 'Repair Access Rights' in 'Disk Utility' for your startup disk.
- If you're asked for a password when reconnecting to your network, try running 'Keychain First Aid' in 'Keychain Utility'. Eventually delete all Airport network passwords.

Jerome

iMac C2D Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Mar 8, 2007 11:58 PM in response to myhighway

Hi All,

I just installed 'Airport Extreme Update 2007-002' and my airport signal is now full strength. I just intalled the update and reboot : 50 % before, 100 % after.

Seems that the update fixed the C2D iMac issue.

iMac C2D Mac OS X (10.4.8)

Mar 24, 2007 7:55 AM in response to Jerome T.

I'm having the same problem.
Have tried all the updates and patches on the forum.
And the methods mentioned.

I have a G4 Powerbook 12" which connects to my Airport Extreme
802.11n just fine all the time. As does my Mac Mini G4.
And my Sony Vaio.

Put about half the time I boot up my Imac, it'll be connected to the Airport network (WPA2), but it'll have no ip address.
(A 169 if you like).
I have to turn Aiport Off and on again. And it connects.

If it goes to sleep, again, I have to switch off and on.

I've rebuilt it. Reformatted it, it's got every patch.
Been through the whole of this posting..
Cannot get it to work properly.

is this a fault with the Imac 20?

myhighway

Level 5

7,270 points

Mar 25, 2007 1:59 AM in response to boomhaueruk

"I've rebuilt it. Reformatted it ... Cannot get it to work properly"

Did you call Apple, tell them that, and ask them what you should do next? Please let other Core 2 Duo iMac users know what's recommended.

Mar 26, 2007 3:53 AM in response to myhighway

Not called Apple yet. Work the same hours they do!
Thought i'd email them and work that way, but couldn't find an email address, so figured posting would be the way to go.

myhighway

Level 5

7,270 points

Mar 26, 2007 12:06 PM in response to boomhaueruk

This might be what you need?
http://depot.info.apple.com/imac/

or: http://www.apple.com/uk/support/contact/

Mar 27, 2007 3:26 AM in response to myhighway

Cool. Will post an email to them tonight and will fill in any advice I get into the forum.

Thanks

Mar 30, 2007 11:31 AM in response to boomhaueruk

Ok, looked at those links.
Maybe I'm being monstrously thick, but can't see an email address for support anywhere. Phone number, sure.
But they're only open when I'm not at home.
And the second link only gives me the option to change or request a part..any ideas?

myhighway

Level 5

7,270 points

Mar 30, 2007 2:04 PM in response to boomhaueruk

Sorry, didn't click on every link, just figured there had to be an email address there somewhere, but you're right, none.

Other problem with phone is if it turns out to be a software problem and if it's past your first 90 days of AppleCare Support coverage. If it's still within the 90 days, you're ok. Otherwise, it'll be to your financial advantage to resolve software issues on your own.

Looks like it'll take a visit to one of the stores or to an AASP. No reason you couldn't walk in without the machine and discuss what you've tried, see if they have a direction for you to go next. I don't like to give up on something like this, especially when it reaches a point like this where lots of others with the same problem on the same model Mac are starting to finally get relief from the latest series of software updates.

Apr 2, 2007 3:54 AM in response to myhighway

Dang. Looks like I'm stuck with renewing the address after suspend and so on for the foreseeable..bugger.

No way can I carry a mac from where I live to central london!
No tubes where I am!
Maybe I'll book a phone call in with apple when I take holiday mid year.
Blast..annoyances til June.
Thanks for your help though.

E.

scfc

Level 1

0 points

Apr 5, 2007 2:48 AM in response to boomhaueruk

Well just to add to the forum that I am also experiencing this issue on my 20" Imac core duo. no problem with my Macbook Pro, my two Airport's or two Windows laptops.

Main symptoms are:
1. Slow / low wireless connection - while my Imac is no more than 3 meters from wireless hub.
2. Disconnects from wireless network - random disconnects
3. Unable to reconnect after sleep/ restart - must turn off airport and the turn on again.

It seems more and more to be a problem with the 20" Imac's I don't think I saw any other model in this listing.
Apple how about a official reponse?

scfc

Level 1

0 points

Apr 5, 2007 2:51 AM in response to boomhaueruk

myhighway

Level 5

7,270 points

Apr 5, 2007 9:15 AM in response to boomhaueruk

Hi boomhaueruk!

It may not work out for you, but many users have an Apple authorized service technician located close enough that when covered by AppleCare, a house call can be made. I may be mistaken, but as I understand it, it isn't necessarily how far you are from the actual location of the nearest AASP, but how handy it might be for the individual technician to come to you.

The other issue is the cost of AppleCare, which some don't find reasonable. I've had good luck buying all my AppleCares on eBay for at least a 30% discount. Best of luck:)

myhighway

Level 5

7,270 points

Apr 5, 2007 9:30 AM in response to scfc

"a problem with the 20" Imac's"

Hi scfc!
No, this also was a problem for 17-inch and 24-inch users.

As you may know, this is Apple's current official response (the previous update - AirPort Extreme Update 2007-001 - has been folded into this one): AirPort Extreme Update 2007-002 as well as the AirPort troubleshooting guide, and between the two, most sufferers have had their issues resolved. If you haven't, make sure that you've recycled your base stations since the update [power off, disconnect, reconnect, power on].

scfc

Level 1

0 points

Apr 5, 2007 12:21 PM in response to myhighway

myhighway,

Thanks for the info. I have installed the latest update (and there I thought I was always up to date....). will see how things go the coming days.

iMac does not connect to wireless network automatically when it starts