The Moscow metro has had free Wi-Fi for several years now, but many users iPhone encounter problems when connecting for the first time. Unlike Android-devices where one tap is often enough, iOS A few extra steps are required—especially if you've never used the metro before. In this article, we'll cover step-by-step instructions for all models iPhone (from iPhone 8 to iPhone 15 Pro Max), including solutions to common errors like "No internet connection" or "The authorization page does not open."
It is important to understand that Wi-Fi in the metro is not provided by the metro itself. Apple, and the operator MaximaTelecom (brand MT_FREE). This means that the settings may differ from those of typical home networks, and the speed depends on the workload of the station. We'll also tell you how bypass the re-authorization restriction (relevant for those who haven't used metro Wi-Fi for a long time) and what to do if the network suddenly disappears from the list of available ones.
1. Preparing your iPhone for connection
Before searching for a network MT_FREE on the subway, make sure that your iPhone Ready to connect. Here are the key points:
- 📱 Update iOS: Wi-Fi in the metro has been optimized for the latest firmware versions. Check for updates in
Settings → General → Software Update. - 🔄 Enable automatic connection: Go to
Settings → Wi-Fiand activate the "Auto-connect to networks" option. - 🛡️ Disable VPN: Services like NordVPN or ProtonVPN may block the authorization page. Turn them off in
Settings → VPN. - ⏳ Check the time and date: Incorrect settings may cause a certificate error. Update them automatically in
Settings → General → Date & Time.
If you use iPhone With dual SIM card (For example, iPhone 12 or newer), make sure that the primary SIM is active - sometimes the MT_FREE network conflicts with virtual operators such as Tele2 or Yota.
⚠️ Please note: At deep stations (e.g., Park Pobedy or Chistye Prudy), the Wi-Fi signal may be weaker due to the thickness of the flooring. If the network doesn't appear in the list, try moving closer to the center of the platform.
2. Step-by-step instructions: how to connect to MT_FREE
Now let's move on to the connection itself. Follow the instructions strictly in order:
Open
Settings → Wi-Fion yours iPhoneMake sure the Wi-Fi slider is on (green).Find in the list of networks MT_FREE (sometimes displayed as MAXIMATELECOM_FREE). Click on it.
Once connected, the browser will open automatically. Safari with the authorization page. If this does not happen, open Safari manually and go to any site (for example,
ya.ru).On the authorization page, enter your phone number (in the format
+79XXXXXXXXX) and click "Get code".Enter the received SMS code in the confirmation field. Checking "Remember me" will prevent you from having to log in again for 30 days.
After successful authorization, you will see a page with a logo. Mosmetro and a session timer (usually 30 minutes).
If you see the "No internet connection" error instead of the authorization page, try forget the network (click "i" next to MT_FREE → "Forget this network") and try connecting again.
Wi-Fi is enabled in the settings
VPN is disabled
Updated iOS to the latest version
The phone number is entered in international format.
Safari browser opens to the login screen-->
3. Solving common problems
Even after successful authorization, users iPhone Often face difficulties. Here are the most common ones and how to resolve them:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The MT_FREE network is not displayed. | Weak signal or Wi-Fi is disabled at the station | Move closer to the center of the platform or restart your iPhone |
| The authorization page does not open | Ad blocker or VPN | Disable AdGuard/VPN or use Incognito mode in Safari |
| The SMS code is not arriving | Problems with the operator or incorrect number format | Please check the format (+7...) and request the code again in 2 minutes. |
| The Internet only works for 5 minutes. | Time limit for new users | Please reconnect in 10 minutes and the limit will be reset. |
The problem with deserves special attention "endless authorization", when after entering the code the page refreshes and asks for a phone number again. This is due to the cache. Safari. Solution:
- Close Safari via the app switcher (swipe up).
- Go to
Settings → Safari → Clear History and Website Data. - Reconnect to MT_FREE and try authorization again.
Every day
1-2 times a week
Rarely, only when necessary
Never connected-->
4. Features for different iPhone models
Although the process of connecting to MT_FREE is generally the same for all iPhone, there are nuances for specific models and versions iOS:
- 📱 iPhone 8/8 Plus/X (iOS 16 and below): You may need to manually specify DNS. Go to MT_FREE settings → "Configure DNS" → "Manually" and enter
8.8.8.8. - 📱 iPhone 11/12 (iOS 17): Sometimes there is a conflict with the "Private Wi-Fi Address" feature. Disable it in the MT_FREE network settings.
- 📱 iPhone 13/14/15 (iOS 18): Wi-Fi 6 support may cause compatibility issues. Please enable Compatibility Mode in
Settings → Wi-Fi → MT_FREE → Disable Wi-Fi 6.
For owners iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) It's important to note that a weak processor may cause the authorization page to load longer than usual. If the screen freezes for 10+ seconds after entering the code, don't close the browser—wait for the redirect.
Why might Wi-Fi not work on the subway on my iPhone 15 Pro Max?
New models with iOS 18 have Wi-Fi 6E enabled by default, which is not supported by MaximaTelecom equipment. To fix this, go to Settings → Wi-Fi → MT_FREE → Network settings and disable the "6 GHz support" option.
5. Alternative connection methods
If the standard method doesn't work, try one of these options:
- 🌐 Through another browser: Install Chrome or Firefox and open any page in it (for example,
google.com). The authorization page should appear automatically. - 📧 Via the mail application: Open Mail and try updating your email - the system will redirect you to authorization.
- 🔄 By resetting network settings: The last resort is to reset the network settings in
Settings → General → Transfer or reset → Reset → Reset network settings. Attention: after this, you will have to re-enter passwords for all saved networks.
Another little-known life hack: if you've already logged in but the network has stopped working, try connecting to MT_FREE manually through Settings → Wi-Fi, then open Safari and enter in the address bar:
http://1.1.1.1This will force the login page to open without having to wait for a redirect.
6. Security: Risks of public Wi-Fi in the metro
Free Wi-Fi in the metro is convenient, but it's not without its risks. Here's what to look out for:
- 🔒 Lack of encryption: MT_FREE network does not use
WPA3, so your traffic may be intercepted. Do not enter passwords for banks or social media. - 📲 Fake access points: Attackers sometimes create networks with similar names (for example, MT_FREE_OFFICIAL). Always check the exact network name.
- 📊 Data collectionWhen authorizing, the operator records your phone number and device MAC address. If this is critical, use second SIM card.
To minimize risks:
- Use VPN (but disable it at the authorization stage!).
- Turn on "Private Address" function in the MT_FREE settings (available on iOS 14+).
- Don't update apps or iOS over metro Wi-Fi—it's better to wait until you're connected to your home network.
⚠️ Warning: In 2026, fraudulent use of fake login pages imitating MT_FREE was reported in the Moscow metro. Always check that the page address begins with https://auth.mtfree.ru (green lock in the address bar).
7. How to speed up Wi-Fi on the subway on iPhone
Internet speed in the metro depends on how busy the station is, but there are ways to improve it slightly:
- 📶 Choose a less crowded carriageThere are usually fewer people in the front and back cars, which means higher speeds.
- ⏱️ Connect during off-peak hours: From 10:00 to 16:00 and after 20:00 the network is less loaded.
- 🔄 Disable background refresh: Go to
Settings → General → Content Updateand turn off the option for mobile data. - 📵 Use Airplane Mode: Turn it on for 10 seconds and then turn it off - this will reset the network settings.
For owners iPhone 12 and newer function is available Wi-Fi Assist, which automatically switches to mobile data when the signal is weak. To disable it (and save data), go to:
Settings → Cellular → Wi-Fi Assist.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about subway Wi-Fi on iPhone
Is it possible to connect to MT_FREE without a phone number?
No, SMS authorization is required. Alternative methods (social media or email) are not supported. If you don't have a Russian number, use mobile data or a local SIM card.
Why does Wi-Fi only work at some stations?
MT_FREE coverage is uneven. A full list of Wi-Fi stations can be found on the website. Mosmetro, but the network is usually available at all stations except the newest ones (those commissioned less than a year ago).
How do I connect if I'm from another region?
The MT_FREE network is only available to subscribers of Russian operators (+7). If you have a foreign SIM card, use roaming or buy a local SIM card (e.g. MTS or Beeline).
Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from the metro to other devices?
Technically yes, but this violates the MT_FREE network terms of service. If a leak is detected, your MAC address may be blocked for 24 hours.
How long is the connection valid?
The session is active for 30 minutes from the moment of authorization. After this time expires, you need to reconnect (but re-entering your SMS is not required if you checked the "Remember me" box).
If none of the tips helped, please contact support. MaximaTelecom through their official website or by phone 8-800-700-40-05. Please indicate your model. iPhone and version iOS - this will help diagnose the problem faster.