Forgetting a WiFi network on Windows 10 is super easy and useful if you want your computer to stop connecting to a specific network automatically. By following a few simple steps, you can remove the network from your list of remembered connections. This can help avoid connection issues or simply manage your preferred networks better.
How to Forget WiFi Network on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of forgetting a WiFi network on Windows 10. By doing so, your computer will no longer connect to the specified network automatically.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
First, you need to open the Settings menu by clicking on the Start button and then selecting ‘Settings.’
The Settings menu is your starting point for changing most configurations on your computer. You can also press the Windows key + I as a shortcut to open Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Network & Internet
Next, click on ‘Network & Internet’ in the Settings menu.
This section contains all the settings related to your computer’s internet and network connections. Here, you can manage everything from WiFi to VPN connections.
Step 3: Select WiFi from the Left Sidebar
Once you’re in Network & Internet, select ‘WiFi’ from the left sidebar.
The left sidebar helps you to quickly navigate between different types of network connections you might have on your device, such as Ethernet, VPN, and Airplane mode.
Step 4: Manage Known Networks
Now, click on ‘Manage known networks’ under the WiFi settings.
This option allows you to see a list of all the WiFi networks your computer has connected to in the past. Here, you can add, remove, or change the priority of these networks.
Step 5: Select the Network to Forget
Find the specific network you want to forget and click on it. Then, choose ‘Forget’ from the menu that appears.
By selecting ‘Forget,’ you are telling your computer to remove this network from its list of known networks. This means it won’t try to connect to this network automatically in the future.
After completing these steps, your computer will no longer remember the WiFi network you have chosen to forget. This can be helpful for troubleshooting network issues or managing your preferred connections.
Tips for Forgetting a WiFi Network on Windows 10
- Check the Network Name: Make sure you are forgetting the correct network by double-checking its name.
- Reconnecting: If you need to reconnect to the network later, you will have to enter the password again.
- Multiple Networks: You can forget multiple networks by repeating these steps for each one.
- Backup: Consider jotting down important network passwords in case you need them in the future.
- Network Priority: Cleaning up your known networks can help improve your computer’s connection preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reconnect to a forgotten WiFi network?
Simply click on the WiFi icon in your taskbar, select the network, and enter the password.
Can I recover a forgotten WiFi network?
No, you will need to re-enter the network password to reconnect.
What happens if I forget a network by mistake?
You can reconnect to it by selecting the network from the list of available networks and entering the password again.
Will forgetting a network affect other devices?
No, it only affects the device on which you perform the action.
Can I prevent my computer from connecting to open networks?
Yes, you can manage this in the WiFi settings under ‘Manage known networks’ by setting connection preferences.
Summary of Steps
- Open the Settings menu.
- Navigate to Network & Internet.
- Select WiFi from the left sidebar.
- Click on Manage known networks.
- Select the network to forget and click ‘Forget.’
Conclusion
Forgetting a WiFi network on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can help you manage your connections more effectively. Whether you’re troubleshooting or just cleaning up your list of networks, these steps will guide you through the process effortlessly. By understanding how to forget a network, you also gain better control over which networks your computer connects to automatically. So, if you find yourself needing to clear out old or unused networks, don’t hesitate to follow these simple steps. For more tips and guides on managing your Windows 10 settings, stay tuned to our blog!
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.