If your Windows 11 PC connects to the wrong Wi-Fi or Ethernet network by default, you can change the network connection priority to ensure the most reliable and fastest connection is always used. In this guide, we’ll explore multiple methods—from built-in settings to command-line tools—to manage network priorities easily.
📝 Summary: Quick Methods
| Method | Best For |
|---|---|
| Change Priority via Settings | Quick Wi-Fi preference |
| Use Command Prompt | Fine-grained control |
| Use PowerShell | Advanced configuration |
| Forget Networks | Remove unused connections |
| Group Policy Editor | Enterprise or Pro editions |
❓ Why Change Network Priority in Windows 11?
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Faster speeds: Ensure your PC connects to the fastest network first.
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Improved reliability: Avoid weak or public networks.
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Better security: Prioritize trusted connections.
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Reduced interruptions: Prevent automatic switching to weaker signals.
📋 Step-by-Step: Change Network Priority
1. Prioritize Wi-Fi Networks via Settings
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Click the Start button and open Settings (Win + I).
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Go to Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks.
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Find the network you want to prioritize.
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Click the network name, then Connect automatically when in range.
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Ensure other networks have this option turned off.
💡 Tip: Windows prefers networks marked for automatic connection.
2. Forget Unwanted Networks
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In Manage known networks, click Forget on any unused or less important networks.
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Reconnect only to the preferred network and check Connect automatically.
3. Change Adapter Priority via Control Panel
For Ethernet vs. Wi-Fi priority:
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Press Win + R, type
control, and press Enter. -
Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
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Press Alt to reveal the menu bar.
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Click Advanced > Advanced Settings.
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Under Connections, reorder adapters using the arrows (e.g., put Ethernet above Wi-Fi).
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Click OK to save changes.
4. Use Command Prompt to Adjust Priority
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Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and Run as administrator.
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List all network interfaces:
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Assign a new priority (lower number = higher priority):
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Use a higher metric (e.g., 20) for lower-priority networks.
5. Use PowerShell for Advanced Control
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Open PowerShell as administrator.
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List current interface metrics:
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Change the priority metric:
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Verify changes:
6. Adjust Priority Between Ethernet and Wi-Fi
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Assign Ethernet a lower metric (e.g., 5) and Wi-Fi a higher metric (e.g., 20).
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This ensures your PC always prefers wired connections when available.
7. Group Policy Editor (For Pro/Enterprise Users)
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Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. -
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > Windows Connection Manager.
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Double-click Minimize the number of simultaneous connections to the Internet or a Windows Domain.
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Configure policies to prioritize specific networks.
8. Restart Your PC or Adapter
After making changes, restart your PC or toggle your Wi-Fi adapter off and on to apply the new priorities.
🔧 Troubleshooting Network Priority Issues
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Priority changes not applying? → Run Command Prompt as admin and reapply settings.
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Wi-Fi reconnects to the wrong network? → Forget the unwanted network.
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Slow network performance persists? → Check your router placement or update drivers via Device Manager > Network adapters.
🧰 Extra Tips for Managing Networks
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Use Wi-Fi Sense settings (if enabled) to manage automatic connections.
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Keep your preferred network’s signal strong by placing your router optimally.
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Consider using static IP settings for critical networks to avoid conflicts.
✅ Conclusion
Changing the network connection priority in Windows 11 ensures you always connect to the fastest and most secure network first. Whether through Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or PowerShell, these methods give you complete control over your network preferences.
Taking a few minutes to adjust these settings can prevent dropped connections, improve speed, and enhance your overall Windows 11 experience.
❓ FAQs: Change Network Priority in Windows 11
1. How do I make Ethernet the default over Wi-Fi?
Use Control Panel > Advanced Settings or set a lower metric for Ethernet using Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. Will forgetting a network delete my password?
Yes—you’ll need to re-enter the password if you reconnect later.
3. Can I prioritize mobile hotspots over home Wi-Fi?
Yes—assign the hotspot a lower metric or disable automatic connection for Wi-Fi.
4. Is Group Policy Editor available on Windows 11 Home?
No, it’s only available on Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
5. How can I verify which network has the highest priority?
Run Get-NetIPInterface in PowerShell and check the InterfaceMetric values—lower numbers are higher priority.