How To Change Windows 10 Network From Public To Private

In Windows 10 when we connect to a new and unknown network, the intelligent operating system sets it to Public.

This means, the new network is marked as untrusted, and Windows 10 PC is hidden. On the one hand, the Public network provides maximum protection, but it also prevents users from sharing folders and printers with the network.

If this bothers you, luckily there’s a way out. To fix this issue, we suggest changing the Windows 10 network to private.

Here we explain the step-by-step instructions to change from public to private network. Before diving deep, let us understand the difference between Public and Private networks. Also, let us know another way to add an extra layer of protection.

How to secure a network?

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Difference between Public, Private & Domain Network

Private Network – As the name infers, it is the trusted network at the workplace or home. Devices marked as private can see and access each other. Also, can easily share files.

Public Network – For public locations like airports, coffee shops, public networks are best. When using a public network nearby and other devices cannot see the computer, share files print via sharing. Also, Windows keeps a strict eye over public networks.

When the user connects to a network for the first time, a choice for the network is made. However, this setting can be changed at any time. Say if, initially you choose public you can change it to private any time you like.

Domain – Generally used when the system has an active directory domain member. Work computers usually don’t fall into this category and the settings for this profile can only be done by the domain administrator.

How to view network profiles?

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window
2. Type control panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center
   
3. Under the Network heading, you will see the Access type and Connections.
   

Why should you change the network to private?

If you plan to use printers or interact with other devices on the same network switch to Private. Else, keep it public as this protects you from unwanted trouble and interference.

How to change Windows 10 network to private, when connected to Wi-Fi?

IMPORTANT: To make changes to the network user needs to log in as an administrator or use an account with administrator rights.

Prerequisite

The system should be connected to the internet.

If you are connected to Wi-Fi and are using a laptop, follow these steps:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon present in the notification area of the taskbar > select the Wi-Fi network you are connected to > Properties.
   
2. This will open the Settings window for the Wi-Fi network, you are connected to. In the Network profile section click Private.
   

This way, you can change Wi-Fi networks from Public to Private.

How to change Windows 10 network location to private, when connected through a network cable?

If you are running Windows 10 on a desktop connected to the network via Ethernet cable, follow these steps.

1. Press Windows + I and open Windows Settings
2. Click Network & Internet.
   
3. Select Ethernet from the left pane.
   
4. Select the network you are connected to.
5. This will open a new window displaying the Ethernet network connection. Click the name of the network.
   
6. Select Private under Network profile.
   
7. Close the Settings window and you are done.

This will help change the network from Public to Private.

How to change Windows 10 network location via the Settings app?

Besides using the above methods, you can change network settings from the Settings app too. To do so, follow the steps below:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings
2. Click Network & Internet
3. Click the name of the Wi-Fi network you are using and change the network profile to Private.
   

If you are using Ethernet, go to Ethernet click the name of the network > change the network profile.

Additional Tip:

Changing network from Public to Private via Windows Powershell (admin)

Press Windows + X > select Windows PowerShell (admin)

Type Get-NetConnectionProfile > Enter

You will now get the details about active network

Make a note of the name mentioned in the Name field

If you see Public mentioned next to NetworkCategory type Set-NetConnectionProfile -Name <enter the name of the network that you saw next to Name field and noted down> -NetworkCategory Private.

This will change Network Category. To confirm the same enter Get-NetConnectionProfile and see the change.

Also Read: – Risk of using Public Wi-Fi

Windows 10 change network to private

Hopefully, using the steps explained above, you can change from a public to a private network. Once you do it, you will be able to share the network with other devices. However, if you don’t communicate with devices like printers and others often don’t permanently change the Windows 10 network to private. Change it only when required.

We hope you like the information and can change the network. Please share your feedback in the comments section.

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