Changing the network connection priority in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that helps you prioritize which network your computer connects to first. By adjusting these settings, you can ensure your machine connects to your preferred network, like your home Wi-Fi, before any others. Here’s how you can easily accomplish this.
How to Change the Network Connection Priority in Windows 11
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to change the network connection priority in Windows 11. This is useful for ensuring your computer connects to the most reliable network first. We’ll break it down into simple steps you can follow.
Step 1: Open the Settings menu
Go to the Start menu and select "Settings."
Opening the Settings menu is the first step to access network-related settings. Clicking on the Start menu and then the Settings icon (which looks like a gear) will get you there.
Step 2: Navigate to Network & internet
Select "Network & internet" from the Settings menu.
Here, you will find all the settings related to your network connections. This section allows you to manage your Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and other network types.
Step 3: Click on Advanced network settings
Scroll down and click on "Advanced network settings."
In this section, you can configure more detailed aspects of your network connections, including changing the priority of each network.
Step 4: Go to Network Adapter options
Click on "More network adapter options."
This will open a new window where you can see all the network adapters installed on your machine, both wireless and wired.
Step 5: Open Network Connection properties
Right-click on the network adapter you want to prioritize and select "Properties."
Right-clicking on the adapter brings up a context menu with various options. Selecting Properties takes you to the detailed settings for that particular adapter.
Step 6: Adjust the priority settings
Under the “Networking” tab, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click "Properties." Then click "Advanced" and uncheck "Automatic metric." Set a lower number in the "Interface metric" box.
Setting a lower number gives this network adapter a higher priority. Windows uses this metric to decide which network to connect to first.
After completing these steps, your computer will connect to the network with the highest priority first. If that network is unavailable, it will move on to the next one in the list.
Tips for Changing the Network Connection Priority in Windows 11
- Know your networks: Identify which networks you use the most and prioritize them accordingly.
- Check network availability: Make sure the networks you want to prioritize are in range and functioning properly.
- Use Ethernet: For a more stable connection, prioritize wired (Ethernet) connections over wireless.
- Monitor changes: Keep an eye on how these changes affect your network connectivity to ensure optimal performance.
- Backup settings: Always note down your current settings before making changes, so you can revert if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I change the network connection priority?
Changing the network connection priority ensures that your computer connects to your preferred network first, leading to a more reliable and faster connection.
Can I prioritize multiple networks?
Yes, you can assign different priority levels to multiple networks by adjusting their interface metrics accordingly.
What if I make a mistake?
If you make a mistake, you can always revert to the default settings by checking the "Automatic metric" checkbox.
Does this affect all users on my computer?
Yes, changing the network priority affects all user accounts on the computer.
Will this improve my internet speed?
Prioritizing a more stable network can improve your internet experience, but it won’t increase your actual internet speed provided by your ISP.
Summary
- Go to the Start menu and select "Settings."
- Select "Network & internet" from the Settings menu.
- Scroll down and click on "Advanced network settings."
- Click on "More network adapter options."
- Right-click on the network adapter you want to prioritize and select "Properties."
- Under the “Networking” tab, select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click "Properties." Then click "Advanced" and uncheck "Automatic metric." Set a lower number in the "Interface metric" box.
Conclusion
Changing the network connection priority in Windows 11 can make a significant difference in how your computer connects to the internet. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can ensure that your device always connects to the best available network first. Whether you’re prioritizing your home Wi-Fi over public networks or giving preferential treatment to a wired connection, these adjustments can lead to a smoother, more reliable online experience.
For further reading, you might want to explore how to manage other network settings in Windows 11 or check out Microsoft’s official documentation for in-depth insights. Now that you know how to change the network connection priority, why not take a few minutes to optimize your settings? It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your day-to-day internet usage.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.