When an iPad cannot join a password-protected Wi-Fi network, one of the first basic checks is to verify that the correct network password is being entered. Apple notes that Wi-Fi passwords are case-sensitive, so incorrect capitalization or characters can prevent authentication. If the correct credentials still fail, additional network-level troubleshooting or assistance from the organization’s network administrator may be necessary. Auto-Join controls whether a previously known network is joined automatically; it does not correct authentication failure. Restarting can be useful later in troubleshooting, but it does not replace verifying credentials. WPA3 Enterprise configuration is controlled by the network administrator rather than the iPad user. Therefore, confirming the correct Wi-Fi password before escalation is the appropriate action.

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