Step-by-Step Guide to Change Wi-Fi Connection Priority on Windows

Key Notes

  • Changing Wi-Fi priority ensures reliable connection to preferred networks.
  • You can adjust priority settings through the Settings app or Command Prompt.
  • Understanding profile order is essential for seamless connectivity.

Master Your Wireless Connections: Altering Wi-Fi Priority on Windows 10 and 11

In this guide, we’ll explore the methods to change the wireless connection priority on Windows 10 and 11, providing you total control over your connectivity.

Methods to Change Wi-Fi Connection Priority

Step 1: Adjust Wireless Network Priority in Windows 11

To prioritize a Wi-Fi profile in Windows 11, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings on your device.

  2. Select Network & internet.

  3. Navigate to the Wi-Fi section.

  4. Click on “Show available networks”.

  5. Choose the network intended for prioritization.

  6. Enable Connect automatically to prioritize this connection.

    Pro Tip: Only use this option for frequently accessed networks.

  7. Press the Connect button.

  8. Input the necessary wireless network credentials.

  9. Click Next to finalize the connection.

This action positions the wireless connection at a higher priority in your settings.

Step 2: Revise Wireless Network Priority in Windows 10

To modify the Wi-Fi connection priority on Windows 10, just follow these steps:

  1. Launch Settings on your Windows 10 PC.

  2. Select Network & internet.

  3. Click on the Wi-Fi settings.

  4. Hit “Show available networks”.

  5. Select your desired wireless network.

  6. Check the Connect automatically option to give this network priority.

    Pro Tip: Consider this only for networks you frequently access.

  7. Press Connect.

  8. Confirm the appropriate wireless network credentials.

  9. Click Next to complete the connection.

This adjustment raises the Wi-Fi profile’s priority in the list.

Step 3: Reorder Wireless Network Priority via Command Prompt

To change the Wi-Fi connection priority using Command Prompt or PowerShell, follow these steps:

  1. Open Start.

  2. Type Command Prompt (or PowerShell ), right-click the first result, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Enter the following command to display the saved wireless profiles:

    netsh wlan show profiles

  4. Identify the wireless interface and profile names listed.

  5. Input the following command to set the desired priority:

    netsh wlan set profileorder name="WIFI-PROFILE" interface="INTERFACE-NAME" priority=1

    Make sure to replace “WIFI-PROFILE” and “INTERFACE-NAME” with the relevant information. Assign “1” for the highest priority. Lower numbers indicate higher priority.

After completing these steps, the wireless profiles will reflect the new priority order.

Additional Tips

  • Regularly verify the stored profiles for unwanted networks.
  • Consider the stability of each network when setting priorities.
  • Use secure passwords for all your Wi-Fi networks.

Summary

Modifying Wi-Fi connection priorities on Windows 10 and 11 enhances your ability to manage network preferences, ensuring your device connects to the most reliable and preferred networks.

Conclusion

Changing wireless connection priority not only improves your connectivity but also optimizes your device’s performance. Ensure you follow the steps outlined and maintain your network settings for a smoother online experience.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How can I check my current Wi-Fi priority settings?

You can check your current Wi-Fi priority settings by using the Command Prompt with the command netsh wlan show profiles.

Will changing Wi-Fi priority affect my internet speed?

Changing Wi-Fi priority does not directly affect internet speed but ensures you connect to the more reliable network first.