Disabling your internet connection without disabling your LAN or network on Windows 10 is a straightforward task. You can achieve this by configuring your network settings through the Control Panel or the Network settings. This will help you stay connected to other devices on your local network while disconnecting from the internet.
Step by Step Tutorial to Disable Internet Connection without Disabling the LAN/Network Windows 10
In this section, we’ll guide you through disabling your internet connection while keeping your LAN active. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth process.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel on your Windows 10 machine.
You can do this by typing "Control Panel" in the search bar next to the Start button and hitting Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Network and Sharing Center
Next, find and click on "Network and Sharing Center" within the Control Panel.
This section shows all your active networks and lets you manage them.
Step 3: Click on Change Adapter Settings
Look for the "Change adapter settings" link on the left side of the Network and Sharing Center and click it.
This will open a new window displaying all your network connections.
Step 4: Identify Your Internet Connection
Find the connection that links your computer to the internet. It might be named "Ethernet" or "Wi-Fi."
Make sure you identify the correct connection to avoid disabling the wrong one.
Step 5: Disable the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)
Right-click on the identified connection, click "Properties," find "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)," and uncheck the box next to it.
Unchecking this box will disable your internet connection while keeping your LAN active.
After completing these steps, your computer will stay connected to your local network but won’t have access to the internet.
Tips for Disabling Internet Connection without Disabling the LAN/Network Windows 10
- Always double-check which network connection you are modifying to avoid disabling the wrong one.
- You can easily reenable the internet connection by rechecking the TCP/IPv4 box in the properties.
- Using this method, you can still share files and printers on your local network.
- This method is reversible and doesn’t require a restart of your computer.
- If you experience any issues, check your network drivers and ensure they are up-to-date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if I disabled the correct connection?
You can verify by checking if you can still access local network devices but not the internet.
Will this affect my VPN connection?
Yes, this method will disable internet access, including any VPN connections.
Can I still use network printers and shared drives?
Yes, you will still have access to network printers and shared drives on your LAN.
How do I reconnect to the internet?
Simply recheck the TCP/IPv4 box in the properties of your network connection.
Will I need any special tools or software?
No, you can accomplish this using the built-in Windows 10 settings.
Summary
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to Network and Sharing Center.
- Click on Change Adapter Settings.
- Identify Your Internet Connection.
- Disable the Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
Conclusion
Disabling your internet connection while keeping your LAN active on Windows 10 is a handy trick for various situations, like when you need to limit internet access for security reasons but still want to stay connected to local devices. This process is quick, reversible, and doesn’t require advanced technical skills.
By following the provided steps, you can achieve this task with ease. Always ensure you reenable your internet connection when needed by checking the TCP/IPv4 box again. This method can be particularly useful in environments like offices or schools where internet access needs to be controlled without disrupting local network activities. If you have any questions or run into issues, don’t hesitate to revisit the steps or consult additional resources for more guidance. Happy networking!
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.