iPhone Basics

Wi-Fi

Your iPhone can connect to the Internet via your cellular data plan (3G/4G or LTE) and through Wi-Fi. So what's the difference? Most cellular data plans only give you a limited amount of data per month, but you can use as much Wi-Fi as you want without using any of your cellular data.

If you have a home Internet connection, you can set your iPhone to connect to it whenever you're at home. You could also connect to a friend's or relative's Internet connection when you go to visit—you'll just need to type in their Wi-Fi password the first time you connect.

To turn Wi-Fi on or off:

1. Tap the Settings icon on the Home screen.
   Opening Settings
2. The Settings will appear. Tap Wi-Fi.
   Opening Wi-Fi Settings
   
3. Next to Wi-Fi, tap the control to turn it on or off.
   Turning Wi-Fi on or off

Joining networks

To join a network that's in range (for example, your home's Wi-Fi or a nearby public hotspot), look for it under Choose a Network. Then tap the network you want to use. If the network is secure, you'll need to enter a password to connect to it.

Joining a Wi-Fi network

If the network isn't secure, you can connect to it without a password, but you should think carefully before you do (especially if it's a public hotspot, like Wi-Fi at your local coffee shop). Anything you view or share over an unsecured network is not necessarily safe from prying eyes.

If the network doesn't appear on the list, it may be out of range or it may be closed (in other words, hidden). To join a closed network, tap Other, then follow the steps to connect to it. You'll need to know the name of the network, the security setting, and the password.

Joining a closed Wi-Fi network

Apple ID

If you've already turned on your iPhone, you know that an Apple ID is part of the setup process. But what else does it do?

In short, an Apple ID is a simple user name and password. It doesn't cost any money to create one, but it's an important part of the iPhone experience. Not only is your identity on your device, but it's also your gateway to other Apple services like the App Store, iCloud, select built-in apps, and much more. The more you use your iPhone, the more you'll understand how prevalent the Apple ID is.

If you don't have an Apple ID yet, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to create one when you set up your device. You can also sign up online. To learn more, visit our quick guide to Creating an Apple ID.