How to Connect to Wi-Fi on Linux: A Complete Guide for Beginners

Connecting to Wi-Fi on Linux might seem challenging if you’re new to the ecosystem, but it’s straightforward once you know the tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide using both graphical (GUI) and command-line (CLI) methods.

Method 1: Using the GUI (Recommended for Beginners)

Most Linux distributions (like Ubuntu, Fedora, or Mint) include a graphical network manager:

1. Open System Settings:
   • Click the system menu (top-right corner).
   • Look for icons like Wi-Fi, Network, or 🌐.
2. Enable Wi-Fi:
   • Toggle Wi-Fi to ON if disabled.
3. Select Your Network:
   • A list of available networks will appear.
   • Click your Wi-Fi name (SSID).
4. Enter Password:
   • Type the Wi-Fi password when prompted.
   • Check “Show Password” to avoid typos.
5. Connect:
   • Click Connect. A confirmation icon (e.g., 📶) will appear once successful.

> 💡 Troubleshooting: If no networks appear, ensure your Wi-Fi adapter is enabled (check Airplane Mode).

Method 2: Using the Command Line (Terminal)

Use these commands if your GUI isn’t working or you prefer the terminal:

Step 1: Identify Your Wi-Fi Adapter

ip link show  

Look for interfaces named wlp1s0, wlan0, or similar.

Step 2: Scan for Networks

sudo iw dev wlan0 scan | grep "SSID"  

Replace wlan0 with your adapter name. This lists available networks (SSIDs).

Step 3: Connect Using nmcli (Easy CLI)

Install NetworkManager if missing (sudo apt install network-manager). Then:

nmcli device wifi list  # View networks  
nmcli device wifi connect "Your_SSID" password "Your_Password"  

Example:

nmcli device wifi connect "Home_WiFi" password "abc123"  

Step 4: Connect Using wpa_supplicant (Advanced)

Use this for hidden networks or enterprise authentication:

1. Generate a config file:

   wpa_passphrase "Your_SSID" "Your_Password" | sudo tee /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf  

2. Apply the configuration:

   sudo wpa_supplicant -B -i wlan0 -c /etc/wpa_supplicant.conf  

3. Get an IP address:

   sudo dhclient wlan0  

Verifying Your Connection

Check if you’re connected:

ping -c 3 google.com  # Test internet  
iwgetid -r            # Show connected SSID  
ip addr show wlan0    # View IP address  

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Driver missing? Install firmware with:

  sudo apt install firmware-linux firmware-iwlwifi  # For Debian/Ubuntu  

• Authentication failed? Double-check your password or router security (WPA2 is standard).
• Still stuck? Restart NetworkManager:

  sudo systemctl restart NetworkManager  

Final Tips

• GUI: Best for everyday use.
• CLI: Essential for servers or debugging.
• Wi-Fi Adapters: Most modern USB adapters work out-of-the-box. Verify compatibility at Linux Hardware.

Linux gives you control—whether clicking buttons or typing commands, you’ll stay connected! 🐧💻