Questions we've been asked, or made up.
How does it actually work?
StatusDot opens a quick TCP connection to reliable public domains (captive.apple.com and cloudflare.com). By using domains instead of raw IP addresses, StatusDot ensures your DNS is actually functioning before declaring you online. To prevent annoying notifications when your WiFi blinks, it uses an asymmetric debouncer: it goes Green instantly when the internet returns, but requires 3 consecutive failures (over a few seconds) to definitively mark your connection as Offline. On launch and wake from sleep, there's a 10-second grace period because even your Mac needs a moment to collect itself.
Why does this exist? macOS already shows WiFi status.
The WiFi icon shows you're connected to a router. StatusDot tells you if that router is actually connected to
the internet. Big difference when your ISP is having a moment.
Does it work with Ethernet / USB tethering / VPN?
Yep. StatusDot checks actual internet reachability, not just WiFi. If packets can reach the outside world
through any adapter, you're green.
Will it drain my battery?
No. A TCP connect probe is about the lightest network operation possible. It's like asking the internet "u
up?" — takes milliseconds and uses negligible power.
Why is there no Dock icon?
StatusDot is a menu bar app. It lives in the menu bar and minds its own business. No Dock clutter, no windows
floating around. It's the introvert of apps.
What data do you collect?
None. Zero. Zilch. StatusDot makes TCP connections to check if the internet is reachable and that's it. No
analytics, no telemetry, no "anonymous usage data." We don't even have a server.
Can I change the check interval?
Yes! Open the menu and go to Preferences. Pick 5, 10, 30, or 60 seconds. We recommend 10 seconds for the
sweet spot between awareness and chill.
What macOS versions are supported?
macOS 13 (Ventura) and later. If you're on something older, we salute your commitment to vintage computing.
