How can an OS X system automatically connect to a Wi-Fi network?

A new OS X system can only automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks that have no standard authentication mechanism, otherwise known as an "open network." However, a configured OS X system can automatically reconnect to authenticated Wi-Fi networks, provided that the appropriate information was saved to the Keychain system.

Code-signed items include a digital signature that the system can use to verify the authenticity and integrity of the application or process and its resources.

A standard user can connect to any non-WPA Enterprise Wi-Fi network via the Wi-Fi status menu. Because the system Keychain must be modified for WPA Enterprise connections, only an administrative user can establish these types of connections.

The Activity Monitor application is used to monitor open processes and applications.