How to Stop Windows 10 from Automatically Connecting to a Wi-Fi Network

When you connect to a Wi-Fi network, Windows 10 automatically remembers the network and its password, attempting to reconnect whenever you are in range. While convenient, this feature may not always be desirable, especially for networks you no longer wish to connect to automatically. Instead of forgetting the network altogether, you can configure Windows to stop auto-reconnecting without removing the network from your system.

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to prevent Windows 10 from automatically connecting to a Wi-Fi network.

Why Would You Want to Stop Auto-Reconnecting?

• Privacy and Security: You might not want to auto-connect to certain public or insecure networks, but still, keep them saved for future manual use.
• Battery Saving: On devices with limited battery, continuously scanning and connecting to Wi-Fi can drain power unnecessarily.
• Preference Control: You might prefer connecting manually to certain networks while leaving auto-reconnect on for more trusted ones.

Steps to Stop Auto-Reconnect to a Wi-Fi Network in Windows 10

Step 01: Open Settings

• Press Windows Key + I to quickly open the Settings app.

Step 02: Navigate to Network & Internet

• In Settings, select the Network & Internet option.

Step 03: Go to Wi-Fi Settings

• On the left sidebar, click on Wi-Fi.

Step 04: Access Adapter Options

• On the right panel under the Related Settings section, click on Change Adapter Options.

Step 05: Open Wireless Network Properties

• In the Network Connections window, find your Wi-Fi adapter.
• Right-click on it and choose Properties from the context menu.

Step 06: Open Wireless Properties

• In the Wi-Fi Properties window (below the General tab), click the Wireless Properties button.

Step 07: Uncheck Auto-Connect

• In the Wireless Network Properties window, go to the Connection tab.
• Uncheck the option labeled “Connect automatically when this network is in range”.

Step 08: Save Changes

• Click OK to apply the changes and close the windows.

Additional Tips

• Manual Connection: You can still manually connect to the network by going to the Wi-Fi settings and selecting the network when needed.
• Multiple Networks: This method can be repeated for any network you want to stop automatically reconnecting to without completely forgetting the network.

Final Thoughts

Windows 10 provides flexible options to manage Wi-Fi connections. By disabling auto-reconnect, you can maintain control over which networks your device connects to while keeping them saved for future use. This is especially useful in public or shared environments where automatic connections can pose privacy or security risks.