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How to Change Your Network From Public to Private

Switching your network profile in Windows 10

By Robert Earl Wells III Updated on June 9, 2021 Reviewed by Ryan Perian Reviewed by Ryan Perian Western Governors University Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Home Networking The Wireless Connection Routers & Firewalls Network Hubs ISP Broadband Ethernet Installing & Upgrading Wi-Fi & Wireless

What to Know

Select the Wi-Fi icon in the Windows taskbar, select Properties under the Wi-Fi network, then choose Private.If using an Ethernet connection, go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet, select Properties under Ethernet, then choose Private.You must set the network to private to share files or connect with other network devices such as printers. This article explains how to change a network from public to private on Windows 10. Designating a connection as private makes it discoverable to other devices, so only do this for networks you trust.

How Do I Change From Public to Private Network in Windows 10

Once you've connected to a Wi-Fi network, follow these steps to change it from public to private: You must be logged in as an administrator to change your network from public to private or vice-versa. Select the Wi-Fi icon in the Windows taskbar. If you don't see the icon, select the up-arrow to expand the options. Under the Wi-Fi network, select Properties. Choose Private under Network Profile. Close the Settings window. The change will take effect immediately.

Set a Wi-Fi Network to Private When Connected via Ethernet

When you connect to a network through an Ethernet cable, the process is slightly different. You can also use this alternative method when connected via Wi-Fi. Select the Windows Start Menu and choose Settings. Select Network & Internet in Windows Settings. Select Properties under Ethernet. Choose Private under Network Profile. Close the Settings window. The change will take effect immediately.

How Do I Turn Off Public Network

When you connect to a new Wi-Fi network, it's set to public by default. To disable this feature, you must change the network properties. Designating the network as public or untrusted ensures other devices on the network cannot access your PC. When using a public Wi-Fi hotspot, we recommend keeping your connection public.

How Do I Make My Internet Connection Private

Setting a network connection to private doesn't protect your privacy. The opposite is true: changing a network to private makes it discoverable to other devices on the network. If you don't want your computer to be vulnerable to hackers, leave the connection public. That said, you won't be able to connect to network printers or share files with other computers unless you set the wireless network to private. You should only change the network setting for connections you trust, such as home or workplace networks. FAQ How do I change my network from public to private in Windows 7? If you're running Windows 7, right-click on the network icon in the Taskbar, then select Open Network and Sharing Center. Under View Active Networks, click the network you're using. You'll have three options: Public Network, Home Network, and Work Network. Select Home Network or Work Network for a private connection. How do I change my network from public to private in Windows 8.1? If you're using Windows 8.1, open the Charms Bar and select Change PC Settings. Click Network to see your active connections, then enable Find Devices and Content. Doing this changes the network from public to private because the option isn't available for public networks. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Change Windows 10 Network to Private How to Change DNS Servers in Windows Connecting a PC to a Wireless Home Network How to Set up USB Tethering on Windows 10 How to Find the Printer on Your Network in Windows 10 How to Connect Chromecast to Hotel Wi-Fi What to Do When Windows 11 Can't Connect to a Network How to Share Internet Access What Is an IP Address? How to Change Your IP Address How to Install the Client for Microsoft Networks Share an Internet Connection in Windows How to Fix Wi-Fi Authentication Problems on Android When and How to Turn Off Wi-Fi on Your Devices How to Connect a Router to the Internet How to Share Your Internet Connection on Windows Vista Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies