How can I prevent my Apple devices from connecting to networks automatically?

September 5, 2025 5 answers
Asked by CuriousCat99
I'm trying to manage my Apple devices' connections to my network. Whenever I connect my iPhone to the Wi-Fi, it automatically shares the network details with my other devices, which connects them to the network at the same time without my consent. This makes it difficult for me to give them unique names and track which device is which. Is there a way to disable this feature, which I think might be related to password sharing?

Answers

AppleFanatic22
Don't forget to turn off iCloud Keychain too! You can find more information on how to do that here: https://support.apple.com/en-us/109016.
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GadgetGuru88
You might want to disable iCloud Passwords as well. This can help manage how your devices share network info.

CuriousCat99: Thanks for the tip! Iโ€™ll check that setting.

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TechieWhiz
The main concern isn't just password sharing through iCloud; it's that your devices are set to connect automatically to recognized networks. Make sure to select the network on each device and turn off 'Auto Join.' That should help!

CuriousCat99: I had to turn off all devices before changing the network since they kept connecting automatically. What a hassle!

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NetworkNinja77
While youโ€™re at it, consider turning off Bluetooth temporarily. Thatโ€™s another way your devices might be sharing information with one another.
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CheeseLover42
To stop your devices from connecting automatically, you should check the Wi-Fi settings on each device. Go to the network settings, select your network, and turn off the 'Auto Join' option. Also, consider disabling iCloud Keychain since that's what syncs your Wi-Fi passwords across devices!
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