macbook pro (2009) wont connect to wifi

[mrgreeneyes]

i have a old macbook pro that i use mainly as a downloader for plex, since i dont care if the macbook is left powered on for long periods.

it used to connect to my wifi with no issues, but now i sees my wifi network, but will not connect to it, i just get a message that says cannot find selected network.

is there something i can do to reset my macbook's wifi? i dont want to do a clean install.

thanks,

 

[chabig]

Assuming you already rebooted the Mac, try rebooting your router.

 

[mrgreeneyes]

Assuming you already rebooted the Mac, try rebooting your router.

i have done both multiple times, even to the point i factory reset my router and still nothing.

 

[raythompsontn]

is there something i can do to reset my macbook's wifi? i dont want to do a clean install.

Make certain the authentication methods match WPA, WPA2, WPA3, etc. Your router may updated firmware and changed the default. An old Mac with an older OS may not understand the newer methods.

 

[Fishrrman]

This 2009 MBP...

Does it have an ethernet port?

If it does, have you tried connecting DIRECTLY to your router using an ethernet cable?

Can you at least get onto the home network that way?

 

[tonmischa]

Did you update your router? Or Router settings? Or Router firmware?

Modern Routers support WPA2/WPA3 Hybrid Mode, which includes PMF for WPA2.
PMF is only supported on Macs built after 2013.

Security features when connecting to wireless networks

All Apple platforms support industry-standard Wi-Fi authentication and encryption protocols.

support.apple.com

Try setting your router to "WPA2 Personal" (or "WPA2-only") Mode and disable PMF, then try again to connect.

EDIT: Please note: Using "WPA2 Personal" without PMF will make your WiFi less secure.

 

[TokyoKiller]

Have you deleted the network completely from your Mac?