How to Check Whether a Computer Is Reachable on the Network (macOS)

Modern versions of macOS no longer include the old Network Utility app. Instead, you can use Terminal or built‑in Finder tools to send a ping — a small packet of data used to test whether another device is reachable on the network.

Method 1: Use Terminal (recommended)

Open Terminal

• Go to Applications → Utilities → Terminal,
• or press Command + Space and type Terminal.

Type the following command

ping <IP address or hostname>

e.g. ping 192.168.1.50

To stop the test, press Control + C

What the results mean

• Replies received → The device is reachable on the network.
• No response / timeouts → The device may be offline, unreachable, or blocking ping requests.

Method 2: Use Finder’s Network Browser (basic check)

This doesn’t ping the device, but it can show whether it’s visible on the local network.

1. Open Finder.
2. In the menu bar, select Go → Network.
3. Look for the device in the list.

If it appears, the Mac can see it on the network. If not, it may be offline or on a different subnet.

Notes and troubleshooting

• Some devices (especially servers, routers, and security‑hardened systems) may be configured not to respond to ping, even when they are online.
• If you receive no replies, it doesn’t always mean the device is offline — it may simply be blocking ICMP/ping traffic.
• If you suspect a network issue, try pinging another known‑working device to confirm your Mac’s connection.

Reviewed 12/01/2026