Changing network adapter priority in Windows

When both wireless and Ethernet connections are available, Windows automatically gives the Ethernet connection a higher priority. However, when you move your laptop in and out of a docking station, you may find that the wireless connection takes priority even when Ethernet is available. Use the steps below if you find that you need to "force" your computer to use its Ethernet connection. Note that to make these changes you need administrative access to your computer; contact your local IT support if you don't have such access.

 Windows 8.1/ and 7

  1. Open the Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
  2. While in the Network Connections window, press the Alt key on your keyboard to make a menu appear at the top.
  3. From the top menu, click Advanced, then from the drop down menu click Advanced Settings.
    • You will be prompted to enter an administrative username and password to open this window.
  4. Under Connections, click Local Area Connection and click the green up arrow until Local Area Connection is at the top of the list.
  5. Click OK to save the settings.

 Windows 10

Unlike previous versions, Windows 10 automatically orders connections based on connection speed. It's not recommended to change the order unless there is a problem with how Windows 10 is selecting your default connection. 
  1. Open the Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter Settings.
  2. Right click the connection whose priority you wish to modify then click Properties.
  3. Scroll down and click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then click Properties.
  4. In the bottom of the properties window, click Advanced.
  5. On the bottom of the Advanced Settings window, uncheck the box next to Automatic Metric.
  6. In the Interface Metric text box, enter the priority number for this connection.
    • Note: The lower the number, the higher the priority the connection will have. Enter any number that is 2 or greater, depending on your preference for this connection.



Keywords:ethernet wireless wifi wi-fi   Doc ID:71922
Owner:IT Support Center .Group:Northwestern
Created:2017-03-21 12:21 CDTUpdated:2019-02-04 11:57 CDT
Sites:Northwestern
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