Disable Wi-Fi on Windows 11 When Using Ethernet

This post shows students and new users how to configure Windows 11 to automatically disable Wi-Fi connection when enabled by Ethernet (wired) connection.

When you connect an ethernet cable to your computer, which is already connected to the Wi-Fi network, Windows will automatically use the ethernet connection.

However, the Wi-Fi connection will not automatically turn off. You’ll have to manually turn it off or disable it to save battery or energy. Most Wi-Fi adapters have a feature that automatically turns off the Wi-Fi connection when an ethernet connection is activated.

When the Ethernet or wired connection is disconnected or disabled, the adapter automatically re-enables and connects to the available Wi-Fi network. This post shows you how to turn on or enable that feature in Windows 11.

To turn on or off “Disable Upon Wired Connect” in Windows 11, follow the steps below.

How to enable disable upon wired connection in Windows 11

If your adapter supports it, you can enable “Disable Upon Wired Connect” in Windows 11. To enable it, continue below.

Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. Everything can be done, from system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows from its System Settings pane.

To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings, as shown in the image below:

Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it.

Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click Network & internet, then select Advanced network settings on the right pane of your screen shown in the image below.

On the Advanced network settings pane, select More network adapter options

This will open the network connections in the control panel. Right-click on the Wi-Fi connection, and select Properties, as shown below.

On the Properties pane, click on Configure, as shown below

Then scroll down the list, select “Disable Upon Wired Connect” and change the value to Enabled.

Click OK to save your changes and exit.

How to disable upon wired connection in Windows 11

If you change your mind about the settings above and want to disable them, simply reverse the steps above by going to the control panel for network adapters, right-clicking on the Wi-Fi adapter, and selecting Properties. Next, click Configured, select the settings for “Disable Upon Wired Connect,” and change the value to Disabled.

That should do it.

Conclusion

In summary, configuring Windows 11 to disable Wi-Fi automatically when an Ethernet connection is utilized can enhance your system’s efficiency and conserve energy. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily enable or disable the “Disable Upon Wired Connect” feature according to your preferences.

• Automating the process saves battery life and reduces energy consumption.
• Easily toggle between settings based on your connectivity needs.
• Enhance your network performance by prioritizing wired connections.
• Simple steps to access network settings through Windows 11’s user-friendly interface.

Implementing these settings can greatly improve your overall computing experience on Windows 11.