MacBook - WiFi does not work when in Dock

Hi All,


I have a new MacBook Pro. I use it in a dock connected via the USB C port. The dock is a simple one, and to the dock I connect a powerSupply and a monitor (samsung). Nothing else.


When I connect to the dock, 2 out of 3 times, the wifi connection is lost or at least, does not work anymore. I cannot connect to a network when in the dock, not internet sharing either.


Anyone know what this is about?

MacBook Pro with Retina display, iOS 12.1

Posted on Nov 8, 2018 12:15 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 9, 2018 8:20 AM

Hello Huusmann,


Thanks for that info and choosing the Apple Support Communities. Based on what you stated, it seems you are experiencing issues with Wi-Fi on your MacBook Pro when plugged into a USB-C dock. First, please follow positioning from this Apple resource on USB-C:

Why do I have difficulty with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices when USB 3 devices are attached to my computer?

Some USB 3 devices can generate radio frequency interference that can cause Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices operating in the 2.4GHz band to have issues communicating with your computer. Here are some tips to avoid this issue:

  • If your USB device has a cable long enough that you can move the device, place it away from your Mac—and make sure not to place it behind your Mac, or near the hinge of its display. The antennas for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are located there, and USB 3 devices placed there might interfere with your wireless connections.
  • If you're using adapters or dongles on a Mac computer with Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, plug them into the front port on the left side of your Mac, or into the ports on the right side (if your computer has them). These ports are the farthest away from the antennas, making interference less likely.
  • To avoid interference on the 2.4GHz band using Wi-Fi, try using the 5GHz band instead. You can change this on your wireless base station. Bluetooth always uses 2.4GHz, so this alternative isn't available for Bluetooth.


Using USB devices with your Mac


Cheers!

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1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 9, 2018 8:20 AM in response to Huusmann

Hello Huusmann,


Thanks for that info and choosing the Apple Support Communities. Based on what you stated, it seems you are experiencing issues with Wi-Fi on your MacBook Pro when plugged into a USB-C dock. First, please follow positioning from this Apple resource on USB-C:

Why do I have difficulty with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices when USB 3 devices are attached to my computer?

Some USB 3 devices can generate radio frequency interference that can cause Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices operating in the 2.4GHz band to have issues communicating with your computer. Here are some tips to avoid this issue:

  • If your USB device has a cable long enough that you can move the device, place it away from your Mac—and make sure not to place it behind your Mac, or near the hinge of its display. The antennas for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are located there, and USB 3 devices placed there might interfere with your wireless connections.
  • If you're using adapters or dongles on a Mac computer with Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, plug them into the front port on the left side of your Mac, or into the ports on the right side (if your computer has them). These ports are the farthest away from the antennas, making interference less likely.
  • To avoid interference on the 2.4GHz band using Wi-Fi, try using the 5GHz band instead. You can change this on your wireless base station. Bluetooth always uses 2.4GHz, so this alternative isn't available for Bluetooth.


Using USB devices with your Mac


Cheers!

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MacBook - WiFi does not work when in Dock

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