Apple iPad has Wi-Fi connection problems
The first reported problem with the iPad involves connecting (or reconnecting) to a Wi-Fi network under certain conditions, and although the error is not widespread, Apple has already acknowledged it.
Though the problem does not seem to be affecting the majority, by any means, of iPad users, there is still a lot of Apple forum traffic on the subject. The problem apparently manifests itself differently to different users. In some cases, the problem shows itself with the iPad being unable to maintain a signal connection, even within very close range of the router. Sometimes, the user may need to reconnect to the Wi-Fi signal every few minutes, according to a FastCompany story.
It is encouraging that Apple has already admitted that the problem exists and is taking steps to mitigate the errors. It may be remembered by some that Apple is not always so forthcoming, such as has happened with overheating iPhones and the display problems that occurred with the last round of iMac updates. Here is what Apple has to say:
Symptoms:
Under certain conditions, iPad may not automatically rejoin a known Wi-Fi network after restart or waking from sleep. This can occur with some third-party Wi-Fi routers that are dual-band capable when:
Using the same network name for each network
Using different security settings for each network
Resolution:
If you encounter this issue, try the following:
Create separate Wi-Fi network names to identify each band. This can be done easily by appending one or more characters to the current network name. (Example: Add a G to the 802.11b/g network name and an N to the 802.11n network name.)
Ensure that both networks use the same security type (WEP, WPA, WPA2, and so on)
If the issue persists, reset your network settings using Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Note: Always ensure that your Wi-Fi router firmware is up to date.
Perhaps the importance of the iPad to Apple’s future, or the different (perhaps less technical) audience for the new tablet computer, has spurred Apple on to tackle these problems quickly and publicly. Regardless of the reasons, it has to feel good from the consumer end to know that Apple is on top of the issues and actively working to rectify them. The problems themselves are likely normal teething issues with a very new product line.
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