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How to set up Wi-Fi for iOS devices?

Hexnode UEM allows administrators to remotely configure and push Wi-Fi network settings to iOS devices. This ensures devices connect to secure networks automatically without requiring manual user intervention or password disclosure.

Configuration Steps: iOS Wi-Fi Policy

To deploy Wi-Fi settings, follow these steps in the Hexnode UEM portal:

  1. Navigate to Policies: Go to the Policies tab.
  2. Create Policy: Navigate to New Policy > Create a fully custom policy.
  3. Access Wi-Fi Settings: Navigate to iOS > Network > Wi-Fi and click Configure.
  4. Add Networks: You can configure multiple Wi-Fi networks within a single policy by clicking the +Add more button.

Wi-Fi Configuration Parameters

Parameter Description
Service Set Identifier (SSID) The unique name of the Wi-Fi network.
Auto join Allows the device to connect automatically when within range. (Default: Enabled)
Hidden Network Enable this if the SSID is not broadcasting. (Default: Disabled)
Disable MAC address randomization Disables MAC address randomization for the specific network. Note: Supported on iOS 14+.
Security Type Defines the encryption method (e.g., WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA3, Enterprise options).
Proxy Configuration for network proxies (None, Manual, or Automatic).

configure Wi-Fi settings on iOS devices

Network Security Types & Requirements

The configuration requirements vary based on the selected Security Type:

1. Open and Personal Networks

  • None: Used for open Wi-Fi networks; no password required.
  • WEP, WPA/WPA2, Any (personal), WPA2/WPA3, or WPA3: Admins must provide the Password. Users will join automatically without seeing or entering the credentials.

2. Enterprise Security Options (802.1X)

Used for Enterprise-grade security. Key options include:

Option Description
Accepted EAP types TLS, LEAP, EAP-FAST, TTLS, PEAP, EAP-SIM. (TTLS is accepted by default).
Inner identity (TTLS only) Authentication processes: PAP (default), CHAP, MS-CHAP, or MS-CHAPv2.
Username Enterprise network username. Supports the %username% wildcard.
Identity certificate SCEP or PKCS certificate profiles uploaded via Policies > Security > Certificates.

Set up wi-fi network enterprise mobile configuration on iOS devices with MDM

Proxy Settings

  • None: Default state. No proxy server is utilized.
  • Manual: Requires Server, Port, and optional Authentication details.
  • Automatic: Requires a Proxy PAC URL to the configuration file.

Policy Association and Deployment

  1. In the policy window, go to Policy Targets.
  2. Select Devices, Device Groups, Users, User Groups, or Domains.
  3. Choose the specific targets and click Save.

Expected Device Behavior

  • Silent Connection: The Wi-Fi profile is pushed silently to the device.
  • Automatic Connection: If “Auto join” is enabled, the device connects immediately when in range.
  • Security: Users cannot view the stored Wi-Fi password in the device settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can multiple Wi-Fi networks be configured in a single policy?

    Yes. By clicking the +Add more button, multiple SSIDs can be added to a single policy for seamless transitions between office locations.

  2. Is it possible to prevent users from seeing the Wi-Fi password?

    Yes. Credentials are encrypted within the configuration profile. The user can connect, but the password remains hidden.

Troubleshooting

Issue Resolution
Fails to connect to hidden network Ensure the Hidden Network checkbox is enabled in the policy.
Enterprise (802.1X) fails Verify that the SCEP/PKCS certificate is valid and the Root CA is trusted.
“Unable to join network” error Confirm the Security Type matches the router’s actual configuration.
Managing iOS Devices