This may be useful in a multi-Wi-Fi network environment. However, this can also result in a higher frequency of periodic scanning for new networks and may increase radio frequency pollution and power consumption used by the wireless network adapter. So basically, when Windows is connected to an existing Wi-Fi network, it periodically scans for a more preferred network. When a preferred network comes into range, Windows automatically switches to that network instead. This is done with no disconnects. However, not all transitions are without issues. This feature is disabled by default in Windows 11. If you prefer to use it, you can simply turn it on with a few clicks. Or if you’re experiencing issues with frequent disconnects or Wi-Fi instability, you may want to turn it off if autoSwitch is enabled. To get started with turning on or off autoSwitch feature on Windows 11, follow the steps below.
How to enable Wi-Fi autoSwitch on Windows 11
As mentioned above, this feature is disabled by default on Windows 11. If you want to turn it on and see if it helps you, use the steps below. Windows 11 has a centralized location for the majority of its settings. From system configurations to creating new users and updating Windows, all can be done from its System Settings pane. To get to System Settings, you can use the Windows key + I shortcut or click on Start ==> Settings as shown in the image below: Alternatively, you can use the search box on the taskbar and search for Settings. Then select to open it. Windows Settings pane should look similar to the image below. In Windows Settings, click Network & internet, then select Advanced network settings on the right pane of your screen shown in the image below. On the Advanced network settings pane, select More network adapter options as shown below. This will open the network connections in the control panel. Right-click on the Wi-Fi connection, and select Status as shown below. On the Status settings pane, click on Wireless Properties as shown below Next, check the box for “Look for other wireless networks while connected to this network” to enable Wi-Fi autoSwitch. Click OK to save your changes and exit.
How to disable WiFi autoSwitch on Windows 11
If you change your mind and Wi-Fi autoSwitch isn’t working as expected, you can simply disable it by reversing the steps above and going to the Start menu ==> Settings ==> Networks & internet ==> Advanced network settings ==> More network adapter options ==> Right-clicking on the Wi-Fi connecting and selecting Status. Then click the Wireless Properties and uncheck the box for “Look for other wireless networks while connected to this network” to disable Wi-Fi autoSwitch. That should do it! Conclusion: This post showed you how to turn on or off Wi-Fi autoSwitch when using Windows 11. If you find any error above or have something to add, please use the comment form below.
