How to Prevent Windows from Connecting to Unsecured Wireless Networks

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 References

A wireless network allows you to connect 1 or more connected computers to the Internet using radio signals instead of cables or wires. Your computer's internal or external wireless adapter converts computer data into a radio signal, which is transmitted via an antenna. The radio signal's waves are received and decoded by a device in your network setup called a wireless router. The router transmits the data to the Internet through a physically wired Ethernet cable or it can send data from the Internet by transmitting a radio signal to your computer's wireless adapter. A wireless connection lets you be mobile while accessing the Internet, but your network's signal may not be the only one in the area. When connecting to the Internet, your computer may automatically connect to an unsecured wireless network used by another person or business instead of a password-protected or security-enabled network you have set up for your own use. Try following these steps to prevent Windows from connecting to unsecured wireless networks.

Steps

1
Click the "Start" button. It is in the lower left corner of the Desktop.
2
Select "Control Panel" from the menu. A window with a list of settings will appear.

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3
Click on "Network and Internet" settings.
4
Click on "Network and Sharing Center".
5
On the left pane, click on the option "Manage wireless networks."
6
Look for those networks where the Security is "Unsecured." Right click on an Unsecured network, then click on "Properties."
7
Make sure that the box next to "Connect automatically when this network is in range," is not checked. Then click on "OK" to save your settings.
- Repeat the steps to uncheck the box for any other unsecured networks on the list.
8
On the lower right hand of the taskbar, click on the "Network" icon (denoted by the signal bars) to see the list of available wireless networks. Then, click "Connect" on your desired security-enabled network.
- In Windows Vista, click the "Start" button, then "Connect to." A list titled "Show" will appear. Click on "Wireless."
- For Windows XP, click on "Start." Go to "Control Panel," then choose "Network and Internet Connections."
- Select "Network Connections."
- Look in the left pane of the window for "Network Tasks." Click on "View available wireless networks" below it.
9
Enter the password if prompted, then click "OK." A window will appear, showing the connection being established.
10
If successful, the Wireless Network Connection will show the "Connected" notification. Congratulations! You are now connected to a secure wireless network.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I disconnect my computer from an unsecured wireless network?

Community Answer

From your WiFi menu, you can choose "disconnect" and then forget the network. You could also just directly connect to another wireless network.

Warnings

Instructions for stopping Windows from connecting to an unsecured wireless network may vary depending on which Windows operating system you have, such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7.

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