How to Disable IPv6 on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 5, 2025

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11, you might have noticed that your system supports IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6) by default. While IPv6 is the future of internet addressing, many networks and apps still rely heavily on IPv4. In some cases, having IPv6 enabled can cause connection issues, slow performance, or compatibility problems. That’s why some users prefer to disable it.

But here’s the big question: How exactly do you disable IPv6 on Windows 11? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk through multiple step-by-step methods to turn off IPv6 safely, so you can improve stability and avoid unnecessary network headaches.

Let’s start simple. IPv6 is the latest version of the Internet Protocol, designed to replace IPv4. Think of it as a modern addressing system that gives every device its own “unique phone number” on the internet. Unlike IPv4, which is running out of available addresses, IPv6 offers an almost unlimited supply.

Why Windows 11 Uses IPv6 by Default

Windows 11 is built with future internet standards in mind. Since IPv6 is faster, more secure, and capable of handling billions of devices, Microsoft enables it by default. This ensures your system is future-proof and ready for modern networks.

Reasons You Might Want to Disable IPv6

Now, if IPv6 is the future, why bother disabling it? Here are some common reasons:

  • Compatibility issues with older software, routers, or VPNs.

  • Slower internet speed when your ISP doesn’t fully support IPv6.

  • Connection drops due to misconfigured networks.

  • Troubleshooting purposes, especially when diagnosing network problems.

So, disabling IPv6 isn’t about rejecting progress—it’s about ensuring your system runs smoothly.

Is It Safe to Disable IPv6?

Here’s the short answer: Yes, for most home users.

Disabling IPv6 won’t break your internet. However, some apps, especially enterprise or cloud-based ones, may rely on it. If you notice issues after disabling, you can always re-enable it (I’ll show you how later).

Different Methods to Disable IPv6 in Windows 11

There isn’t just one way to disable IPv6—you’ve got options! Below are the five most common methods:

  • Network Adapter Settings – The easiest way through system settings.

  • Control Panel – The classic method many still use.

  • Registry Editor – For advanced users who want a permanent tweak.

  • PowerShell Command – Quick and tech-friendly.

  • Group Policy Editor – Best for professional or enterprise setups.

Step-by-Step Guide for Each Method

Method 1: Disable IPv6 via Network Properties

  1. Right-click the Start Menu and select Settings.

  2. Go to Network & Internet.

  3. Click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet, depending on your connection.

  4. Select Hardware properties.

  5. Scroll down and uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).

  6. Hit OK and restart your PC.

Method 2: Disable IPv6 via Control Panel

  1. Open Control Panel (search for it in Start).

  2. Click on Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Select Change adapter settings from the left menu.

  4. Right-click your active network → choose Properties.

  5. Uncheck Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6).

  6. Press OK and restart your PC.

Method 3: Disable IPv6 Using Registry Editor

⚠️ Warning: This method is for advanced users. Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues.

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Tcpip6\Parameters

  3. Right-click and choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.

  4. Name it DisabledComponents.

  5. Set the value to 0xFF (255 in decimal).

  6. Restart your PC.

Method 4: Disable IPv6 Using PowerShell

  1. Right-click the Start button and choose Windows Terminal (Admin).

  2. Type this command and press Enter:

    Disable-NetAdapterBinding -Name "Wi-Fi" -ComponentID ms_tcpip6

    (Replace “Wi-Fi” with your actual adapter name, e.g., “Ethernet”)

  3. Restart your computer.

Method 5: Disable IPv6 via Group Policy Editor

(Only available on Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise)

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > TCPIP Settings

  3. Look for Disable IPv6 and set it to Enabled.

  4. Apply changes and restart your PC.

How to Verify IPv6 Is Disabled

To confirm IPv6 is off:

  1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

  2. Type:

    ipconfig /all

  3. If you don’t see an IPv6 address under your adapter, it’s disabled successfully.

What Happens After Disabling IPv6

  • Your PC will default to IPv4 connections.

  • If your ISP doesn’t support IPv6, you may notice improved stability.

  • Some apps or services designed for IPv6 might not function optimally.

How to Re-Enable IPv6 if Needed

Simply repeat the same steps in whichever method you used and check the IPv6 box (or delete the registry entry, or run the opposite PowerShell command).

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Lost internet connection → Restart your router and PC.

  • VPN not working → Switch back to IPv6 if required.

  • Slow speed after disabling → Check with your ISP, they may have full IPv6 support.

Tips for Better Network Performance

  • Keep your network drivers updated.

  • Restart your router regularly.

  • Use a reliable DNS (like Google DNS or Cloudflare).

  • Avoid too many background apps hogging bandwidth.

IPv4 vs. IPv6: A Quick Comparison

Feature IPv4 IPv6
Address length 32-bit 128-bit
Total addresses ~4.3 billion 340 undecillion+
Speed Good Faster in modern apps
Compatibility Universal Still improving

Should You Stick with IPv4 for Now?

If your network is stable with IPv4, there’s no rush. Most ISPs are slowly rolling out full IPv6 support, but until it’s seamless everywhere, many users stick to IPv4 for reliability.

Expert Recommendations on IPv6 Usage

  • Home users: Stick with IPv4 if you face issues.

  • Gamers/streamers: Disable IPv6 if you notice lag.

  • Businesses: Keep IPv6 enabled to stay future-ready.

Final Thoughts

Disabling IPv6 on Windows 11 isn’t complicated—it just takes a few steps. Whether you choose the network settings, registry, PowerShell, or group policy, you now have multiple ways to do it. The key is to test your connection afterward and decide if disabling actually improves performance.

Remember, IPv6 isn’t your enemy—it’s just not fully supported everywhere yet. If you ever need it again, turning it back on is just as easy.

FAQs

Q1. Will disabling IPv6 speed up my internet?
Not always. If your ISP doesn’t support IPv6, disabling it may reduce errors and improve stability, but it won’t magically boost speed.

Q2. Can I disable IPv6 on just one network adapter?
Yes. Using network properties, you can disable IPv6 on a specific adapter without affecting others.

Q3. Do VPNs work better with IPv4 or IPv6?
Most VPNs are optimized for IPv4, so disabling IPv6 can help avoid leaks or compatibility issues.

Q4. Does disabling IPv6 affect Windows updates?
No. Windows updates still work fine over IPv4.

Q5. Should businesses disable IPv6?
Not recommended. Many enterprise networks are adopting IPv6, and disabling it could limit future compatibility.

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