When multiple networks (Wi-Fi, Ethernet & others) are available on a MacBook, the particular network that your MacBook uses or connects to first is determined by the network priority order, as determined by macOS and setup on the Network Preferences screen on your MacBook.
However, you can also manually change the network priority or network service order on your MacBook, to make sure that it is always connecting to your preferred network type (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) or your preferred Wi-Fi network (Home, Office, etc.).
Advantages of Manually Setting Network Priority on Mac
Manually setting up the network priority or service order on a MacBook can offer the following advantages.
- Flexibility: You can manually select the network type (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) that suits your requirements better, instead of allowing macOS to determine the network service order on your MacBook.
- Improved connectivity: By manually setting up network priority, you can make sure that your Mac connects to the most stable or the fastest available network.
- Resolve Connectivity Issues: You may find the need to manually setup the network priority on your Mac, while trying to address network connectivity issues.
- Prefer Wired Network: Making your MacBook to always use the wired connection (Ethernet) can reduce interference from other devices, leading to a more stable and faster internet connection.
By setting up network priority, you can enjoy a better user experience and avoid interruptions caused by weak or congested networks.
Related: How to Find Your Wi-Fi Password on iPhone & Mac.
1. Change Network Priority on Mac to Wi-Fi or Ethernet
Depending on your preference, you can make either Wi-Fi (wireless) or Ethernet (wired network) as the preferred network type on your Mac.
1. Click on Apple Logo in the top-menu bar and select System Settings in the drop-down menu.
2. On System Settings screen, select Network in the left-pane > In the right-pane, scroll down to “Other Services” section > click on 3-dots icon and select Set Service Order option in the drop-down menu.
3. On Service Order screen, select your preferred Network type (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) and drag it to top of the list, followed by your second option.
For example, you can drag Ethernet to top and move Wi-Fi below Ethernet, if you want your MacBook to always connect to Ethernet or Wired Connection.
4. Once you are done reordering Networks, click on OK to save your changes.
After this, you will find your Mac always connecting to your preferred Network type, whenever it wakes up or gets re-started.
2. Make Mac Use Your Preferred Wi-Fi Network
If multiple Wi-Fi networks are available on your Mac, you can reorder the Wi-Fi Networks on your Mac to make sure that it is always connecting to your preferred Wi-Fi Network.
1. Click on Apple Logo in the top-menu bar and select System Settings in the drop-down menu.
2. From System Settings screen, go to Network (left-pane) > In the right-pane, click on 3-dots icon and select Set Service Order option in the drop-down menu.
3. On the next screen, drag your Preferred Wi-Fi Network to the top in Preferred Networks window.
4. Click on OK to save your Preferred Wi-Fi Network Settings.