Forgetting a Wi-Fi network in Windows 10 deletes its saved password and settings, so your PC stops connecting automatically. It’s useful when a password changed, a network is causing connection problems, or you don’t want to join a public hotspot again. This guide covers forgetting networks from the taskbar, Settings and Command Prompt, forgetting all networks at once, and reconnecting.
Quick Answer
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks, click the network, and click Forget.
Method 1: Settings
- Press Windows + I and go to Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
- Click Manage known networks.
- Click the network and choose Forget.
Method 2: Taskbar
- Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar.
- Right-click the network name (it must be in range) and choose Forget.
Method 3: Command Prompt
- Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.
- List saved networks:
netsh wlan show profiles - Delete one:
netsh wlan delete profile name="Office-WiFi" - Delete all saved networks:
netsh wlan delete profile name=* i=*
Profiles created by your organization may require an administrator Command Prompt to delete.
Reconnect After Forgetting
Click the Wi-Fi icon, select the network, click Connect, and enter the password. Check Connect automatically if you want it saved again.
Stop Auto-Connecting Without Forgetting
In Manage known networks, click the network, choose Properties, and turn off Connect automatically when in range. The password stays saved.
When Forgetting Helps
- The router’s password changed and Windows keeps failing to connect.
- “Can’t connect to this network” errors on a network that works for other devices.
- You connected to a similarly named network by mistake.
- You’re handing the PC to someone else.
If problems continue, reset networking: see how to reset the network adapter in Windows 10.
See a Saved Network’s Password First
If you’ll need the password again, view it before forgetting: run netsh wlan show profile name=”Office-WiFi” key=clear and look for Key Content. This only works for networks saved on your own PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t I see Manage known networks?
Your Wi-Fi adapter may be off or missing a driver. See how to enable the Wi-Fi adapter.
Does forgetting a network affect other devices?
No. It only affects this PC and your Windows account.
Is it the same in Windows 11?
Yes, under Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025.
Summary
- Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks > Forget.
- Or right-click the network in the taskbar Wi-Fi list.
- Use netsh wlan delete profile for one or all networks.
- Turn off Connect automatically to keep the password without auto-joining.
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.