Summary
Apple's explanation of the private Wi-Fi address that iPhones and other Apple devices use on each network, and when users or organisations might change the setting.
Key findings
- Explains that, to reduce tracking, Apple devices identify themselves to each Wi-Fi network with a different address (MAC address) and may change it periodically.
- From iOS 18 the setting is Off, Fixed or Rotating: devices choose Fixed on networks with WPA2 or stronger security, and Rotating, which changes the address every two weeks, on networks with weak or no security.
- States that a private address does not affect how users join or use most Wi-Fi networks, advises keeping it on, and says that if a device cannot join a network or reach its resources, users should install the latest software updates and try again before deciding to turn it off.
- Says businesses and other organisations might need to update their Wi-Fi network security to work with private addresses, or can turn the feature off for devices they manage.
Limits
General guidance for all Wi-Fi networks; it does not mention audio streaming or venue systems, and covers Apple devices only. The date is the published date shown on the page.
Read the original
support.apple.com/en-us/102509
Cited in
Cite this source
Apple. Use private Wi-Fi addresses on Apple devices. Apple Support. 5 December 2025. https://support.apple.com/en-us/102509 (accessed 9 October 2026).
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