How to disable Wi-Fi on an iPhone or iPad and always use cellular data

You can set your device so it never connects to Wi-Fi, if you follow the right sequence.

- GLENN FLEISHMAN

Sometimes, you want your iPhone or iPad to never connect to Wi-Fi. Instead, you’d prefer it to always use cellular data. You can disable Wi-Fi, but you have to use the right set of options and sequence to ensure it remains off.

Why disable Wi-Fi? Sometimes local service is poor or intermittent. While Wi-Fi Assist can help, you may want more reliable and consistent access, and not want to “forget” the flaky Wi-Fi network, as you may need it in the future. (To forget a Wi-Fi network, go to Settings → Wi-Fi while the network is in range, tap the network’s info button (i), and then tap Forget This Network and confirm it.)