To forget a WiFi network in Windows 10, you need to access the network settings, locate the specific network, and remove it from your saved networks list. This process can help if you want to stop your device from automatically connecting to a specific network. The steps are simple and can be done in just a few clicks.
How to Forget a WiFi Network on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through each step to forget a WiFi network on your Windows 10 device. By the end, you’ll have successfully removed the unwanted network from your saved list.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
First, open the Settings menu by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
The Settings menu is the central hub for managing your Windows 10 preferences. It’s located just above the power icon on the Start menu, making it easy to find.
Step 2: Navigate to “Network & Internet”
Second, select “Network & Internet” from the Settings menu.
This section contains all your network-related settings, including WiFi, Ethernet, and VPN configurations.
Step 3: Click on “Wi-Fi” in the Sidebar
Next, click on “Wi-Fi” in the left-hand sidebar to access your WiFi settings.
The sidebar is designed to help you quickly navigate through different network options. Selecting “Wi-Fi” will display all related settings on the main screen.
Step 4: Choose “Manage Known Networks”
Then, click on “Manage known networks” to see a list of all previously connected WiFi networks.
This list includes every network your device has ever connected to and saved for future use. It’s here that you can edit or forget any network.
Step 5: Select the Network You Want to Forget
After that, locate the network you wish to forget and click on it.
The list is arranged alphabetically, making it easier to find the specific network you’re looking for.
Step 6: Click “Forget” to Remove the Network
Finally, click the “Forget” button to remove the network from your list.
Once you click “Forget,” Windows 10 will no longer remember the network, and it won’t automatically connect to it in the future.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your device will no longer automatically connect to the forgotten WiFi network. If you ever need to reconnect, you’ll have to enter the network’s password again, just like the first time you connected.
Tips for Forgetting a WiFi Network on Windows 10
- Double-Check Network Names: Make sure you’re forgetting the correct network, especially if multiple networks have similar names.
- Reboot for Good Measure: Sometimes, a quick restart ensures that the changes take full effect.
- Update Network Drivers: Keeping your network drivers up-to-date can prevent future connectivity issues.
- Use Network Troubleshooter: If you’re having trouble forgetting the network, the built-in troubleshooter can help diagnose and fix common problems.
- Backup Network Info: If you’re forgetful, jot down the network’s SSID and password somewhere safe before you forget it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I forget a WiFi network?
When you forget a WiFi network, your device will no longer automatically connect to it, and you’ll need to re-enter the password if you want to reconnect.
Can I re-add a forgotten network?
Yes, you can reconnect to any forgotten network by selecting it from the available networks list and entering the password.
Does forgetting a WiFi network affect other devices?
No, forgetting a WiFi network on one device does not affect other devices connected to the same network.
What if I forget a network by mistake?
If you accidentally forget a network, you can easily reconnect by selecting it from the available networks list and entering the corresponding password.
Can I forget multiple networks at once?
No, you need to forget each network individually. This ensures you are only removing the networks you intend to.
Summary
- Open the Settings menu.
- Navigate to “Network & Internet.”
- Click on “Wi-Fi” in the sidebar.
- Choose “Manage known networks.”
- Select the network you want to forget.
- Click “Forget” to remove the network.
Conclusion
Forgetting a WiFi network on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that takes just a few clicks. Whether you’re troubleshooting connectivity issues or simply cleaning up your list of saved networks, these steps will guide you through it with ease.
If you’re still encountering issues, consider exploring other network settings or using the built-in troubleshooter. As always, keeping your system updated can help prevent connectivity problems in the future. For more detailed guidance on managing your network settings, check out additional resources or forums where you can find tips from other Windows 10 users.
By following these steps, you can take control of your device’s network preferences, ensuring a smoother and more efficient WiFi experience.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.