Wi-Fi

24-inch iMac M1 (2021): Wi-Fi bands and connection checks

Apple lists Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for the 24-inch iMac M1. It is not on Apple’s Wi-Fi 6E model list.

Applies to: 24-inch iMac with M1, introduced in 2021. Settings names vary by macOS version.Checked: 2 November 2026

Symptoms

Signal or interference. Distance and nearby radio activity can affect the link.
Router settings or regional limits. The router must support a usable band and security mode. Availability of 6 GHz varies by country.

Choose Apple menu › About This Mac to confirm the model and year.
Apple specifies 802.11ax, with compatibility for 802.11a, b, g, n and ac.
Apple’s model specifications do not state a maximum PHY rate. The negotiated rate depends on the router and signal.
Those PHY maxima assume a compatible link and are not internet speed promises.
Ethernet availability varies with configuration. Check your power adapter before comparing a wired connection.
Open Wireless Diagnostics from the Wi-Fi menu. See Use Wireless Diagnostics and wdutil on a Mac.
Compare the connection on another device and inspect channel conditions. See Crowded Wi-Fi channels near your Mac.

Move closer to the router and test again.
Check its band and security settings. See 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz Wi-Fi on a Mac.
If Wi-Fi connects but internet access fails, follow Mac connected to Wi-Fi but no internet.

The exact menus for your router, from FRITZ!Box and Xfinity to eero and Livebox: router guides.

Does the 24-inch iMac M1 support 6 GHz Wi-Fi?

Apple specifies Wi-Fi 6 and does not include the 2021 iMac on its Wi-Fi 6E list. The later 2023 iMac supports 6E.

Is the maximum PHY rate the speed of an internet download?

No. It describes a wireless link maximum. Signal, channel width, other traffic and the internet connection affect throughput.

Checked on 2 November 2026.