How do I change my Wi-Fi area?

Taking Control of Your Wi-Fi Zone: Choosing Your Preferred Network in Windows

Your Wi-Fi experience isn’t just about speed; it’s also about control. While your device often automatically connects to the strongest available signal, you might have specific needs that require a different approach. Perhaps you want to prioritize a 5GHz network over a congested 2.4GHz one, or maybe you need to connect to a specific network with unique access privileges. Whatever your reason, Windows gives you the power to choose your preferred Wi-Fi zone.

This isn’t about physically changing the area covered by your Wi-Fi router’s signal. Instead, it’s about directing your Windows device to connect to the network you want, rather than the one it thinks is best. Here’s how to take the reins and manage your Wi-Fi network selection:

Navigating to Network Settings:

The heart of Wi-Fi management in Windows lies within the Settings application. There are a couple of ways to get there:

• Using the Search Bar: Click the Start button (or press the Windows key) and type “Settings”. The Settings app should appear at the top of the search results. Click on it.
• From the Quick Actions Menu: Click the network icon in the system tray (usually located in the bottom-right corner of the screen, near the clock). From the pop-up menu, select “Network & internet settings”.

Selecting Your Preferred Network:

Once in the Settings app, follow these steps:

1. Click on “Network & internet”: This will open a new page dedicated to all your network connections.

2. Select “Wi-Fi”: This will display a list of available Wi-Fi networks, along with your current connection status.

3. Choose Your Network: Click on the network you want to connect to. If it’s a secured network, you’ll be prompted to enter the password.

4. “Connect Automatically” Option: Check the box next to “Connect automatically” if you want your device to always prioritize this network whenever it’s in range. Leaving this box unchecked allows you to connect manually when needed, but your device may prioritize other stronger signals.

5. Manage Known Networks: For finer control, click on “Manage known networks”. This will allow you to forget previously saved networks, adjust connection properties, and even set metered connection limits. Forgetting a network can be useful for troubleshooting connection issues or ensuring your device doesn’t automatically connect to an undesired network.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively manage your Wi-Fi connections and ensure your Windows device prioritizes the network that best suits your needs. This gives you greater control over your online experience, allowing you to optimize performance and connectivity.