How to Enable Modern Standby Network Connectivity in Windows 11
You enable Modern Standby network connectivity in Windows 11 to keep your PC connected to the internet or network while it sleeps.
This feature lets your Windows 11 device wake up instantly, much like your smartphone. That way, you can get notifications, emails, and alerts without delay, even when your PC is in a low-power state.
When you set up Modern Standby correctly, it makes a big difference in how you use your PC. You get to stay connected without burning through your battery too fast. Windows 11 introduced this power-efficient sleep state.
This tutorial will guide you through enabling or disabling network connectivity during Modern Standby, giving you control over your PC’s power consumption and online status.
You enable Modern Standby network connectivity by navigating to Control Panel, then Hardware and Sound, and finally Power Options. From there, change your active plan settings and adjust “Network connectivity in Standby” under advanced power settings. You can choose to enable, disable, or let Windows manage the connection.
What is Modern Standby Network Connectivity?
Modern Standby network connectivity means your Windows device can stay connected to Wi-Fi or other networks even when it’s asleep, letting you get updates and notifications right away.
Why Use Modern Standby?
Modern Standby helps you stay in touch without draining your battery as quickly. You get important notifications while your computer rests.
What Happens When You Change These Settings?
When you enable network connectivity, your device uses a little more power but stays up to date. When you disable it, your device saves battery but won’t receive updates until you wake it up.
How to Change Modern Standby Network Settings in 🪟 Windows 11
First, check if your PC actually supports Modern Standby. You can find out how to check here.
Step 1Open Control Panel
- Click the Start menu (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
- Type
Control Panelin the search box. - Click on the Control Panel app from the search results.
Step 2Go to Power Options
In Control Panel, click Hardware and Sound. Then select Power Options.
Path: Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options
Step 3Change Power Plan Settings
Find your current active power plan. Click Change plan settings next to it.
Step 4Open Advanced Power Settings
Click Change advanced power settings.
Step 5Adjust Network Connectivity in Standby
You can change how your computer uses the network while it’s sleeping by adjusting the ‘Network connectivity in Standby’ settings.
- On battery: Choose Disable, Enable, or Managed by Windows.
- Plugged in: Choose Disable, Enable, or Managed by Windows.
Pick the settings that fit your needs:
- Enable: Stay connected during sleep.
- Disable: Disconnect to save battery.
- Managed by Windows: Let Windows decide what’s best.
When done, click OK to save your changes.
Alternative Method: Use Local Group Policy Editor
You can also change these settings using the Local Group Policy Editor, a tool often used by more advanced users. It’s a great option if you prefer quicker access to these settings.
Step 1Open Local Group Policy Editor
- Click the Start menu.
- Type
Edit group policy. - Click on Edit group policy in the results.
Step 2Go to Sleep Settings
In the left panel, follow this path:
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\System\Power Management\Sleep SettingsStep 3Change Connectivity Settings ⚠️ Admin Access Required
To control network access when your computer is in connected standby, you’ll need administrator rights to change these settings.
- Allow network connectivity during connected-standby (plugged in)
- Allow network connectivity during connected-standby (on battery)
Double-click each one. Then select:
- Not Configured (default)
- Enabled – Keep network connected during standby.
- Disabled – Network may disconnect during standby.
Click Apply and then OK for each setting.
Summary
- Modern Standby lets your computer stay connected to networks while sleeping.
- You can choose to keep the connection on, turn it off, or let Windows decide.
- Adjust these settings using Control Panel or Local Group Policy Editor.
- Changing these settings helps balance getting notifications and saving battery power.
Modern Standby keeps your PC connected to the internet even when it’s asleep, letting you get updates and notifications.
What is Modern Standby network connectivity?
Windows 11’s Modern Standby network connectivity (a power-saving feature that keeps your PC connected) allows your device to be partially active in a low-power state while remaining connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Enabling Modern Standby lets you sync emails, receive VoIP calls, or get updates when needed.
Will Microsoft ever fix Modern Standby?
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 24H2 and later now fix several issues with Modern Standby that caused sudden wake-ups and abnormal battery consumption, reports Windows Latest.
How do I know if my laptop supports Modern Standby?
In the command prompt window, type [powercfg /a] and press Enter③. If the result shows [Standby (S0 Low Power Idle) Network Connected] or [Standby (S0 Low Power Idle) Network Disconnected]④, it means your device supports the Modern Standby feature.
What is the difference between S3 and Modern Standby?
The main difference between S3 and Modern Standby is how the system enters and exits its low power state.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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