How to Forget a Wi-Fi Network on Windows 10
Got a Wi-Fi network on your Windows 10 device that you no longer need it to remember? Clearing out old connections can tidy up your list and might even fix pesky connection problems. No one wants their PC trying to connect to a phantom network that’s disappeared. The good news? Forgetting a saved network is quick and easy, and it stops your device from automatically connecting to networks that might not be secure. Here’s how to do it.
Forgetting a Wi-Fi Network: The Basics
When you forget a network, Windows deletes the profile associated with it. That means your device won’t reconnect automatically, and if you want to join that network again later, you’ll need to enter the password anew. It’s a handy way to manage saved profiles and keep things secure. Here’s how to do it:
Opening the Settings Menu
First, head into the Windows Settings—think of it like the control tower for your device. Click the Start button (the Windows logo), then select the gear icon labelled “Settings.” Alternatively, press Windows key + I to open Settings instantly. Either way, you’ll want to get in there.
Navigating to the Correct Section
Once in Settings, click on “Network & Internet”. This is where all your online connection settings live—pretty much the command centre for your network options.
Going to the Wi-Fi Settings
On the left sidebar, select “Wi-Fi”. Here, you’ll see your current Wi-Fi status and options to manage saved networks. You’ll want to prune any clutter to keep things running smoothly.
Managing Known Networks
Next, click on “Manage known networks”. This will bring up a list of all Wi-Fi networks your device remembers. Think of it as your network address book—only some entries might be better off forgotten.
The Final Step: Forget the Network
Find the network you want gone, click on it, then hit the “Forget” button. Just like that, the profile is deleted, and your device won’t connect to it again unless you manually set it up from scratch later. If you decide to reconnect, don’t forget you’ll need to re-enter the password. It’s a good idea to keep those details somewhere safe.
Extra Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Instead of using the mouse, you can also remove networks via Command Prompt or PowerShell with these commands:
netsh wlan delete profile name="NetworkName"- Replace
NetworkNamewith the actual name of the network you want to forget.
- Want to see all your saved profiles? Just run:
netsh wlan show profiles - Re-adding a network is just as simple through Network Settings or a
netshcommand to create a new profile.
Tips for Keeping Your Wi-Fi List Tidy
- Stay on Top: Regularly review and clean out old networks. It keeps things more secure and less cluttered.
- Double-Check Names: When you’re about to forget a network, make sure you pick the right one—especially if there are similar names floating around. No one wants to lose their local café’s Wi-Fi by mistake.
- Save Your Passwords: When you forget a network, its password goes with it. Be ready to re-enter it if you reconnect later.
- Prioritise Security: Removing old or dodgy networks helps prevent accidental connections and keeps your info safe.
- Fix Persistent Issues: Sometimes, forgetting and then re-adding a network can resolve connectivity quirks, especially if outdated profiles are causing trouble.
FAQs About Forgetting Networks on Windows 10
What happens when I forget a Wi-Fi network on Windows 10?
Your device deletes its profile for that network, so it won’t connect automatically anymore. If you want to use it again, you’ll need to find the network and pop in the password.
Can I undo forgetting a network?
Absolutely! Just select the network from your available options and enter the password. It’s like starting fresh.
Why should I forget a network?
For security—especially with public hotspots—and to tidy up your saved networks. Plus, it can help resolve connection issues caused by outdated info.
Will this delete my Wi-Fi password?
Yes, it removes the saved password too. Be prepared to re-enter it next time you connect.
Is forgetting a network permanent?
Nope! You can always reconnect later. Think of it as a temporary breakup with the network.
Wrapping Up
Forgetting a Wi-Fi network on Windows 10 is straightforward. It’s a handy way to keep your network list tidy, troubleshoot odd issues, and make sure you’re only connecting to trustworthy networks. Just a few clicks, and you might save yourself a whole lot of hassle—especially if a rogue profile is interfering with your internet.
Getting to know these network settings not only boosts your online security but also helps keep your connections running smoothly. Regular checks can make a real difference in maintaining a safe and efficient digital experience. Hopefully, this guide saves you some time and trouble down the track.