iPad Private MAC Address Causing Wifi Connectivity Issues

To communicate with a Wi-Fi network, a device must identify itself to the network using a unique network address called a Media Access Control (MAC) address. This MAC address is what our school networks use to identify devices to assign whitelisting permissions and voucher code authorization.

Starting with iOS 14, iPadOS 14 and watchOS 7, Apple has enabled Private MAC Address by default when connecting to a network. This prevents our networks from assigning the correct permissions to devices. It has caused people to "lose" their whitelist status and has removed their voucher code authorization. 

With these simple steps we can disable that feature and get you back on track.

First, we will open Settings



Select Wi-Fi

Select the Information button


Then disable the option for the Private MAC address

The iPad might need to be restarted after the the setting is turned off. After following these steps your device should be good to go! 

If you are still experiencing issues please contact us at [e-mail]