Select Start > Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks. Find the network and select Forget. Windows stops connecting to it on its own.
Applies to: Windows 11. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 29, 2026.
Forget a network in Settings
- Select Start > Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi.
- Select Manage known networks.
- Find the network in the list and select Forget.
Forget a network from quick settings
- Select the Network icon next to the clock.
- Select the arrow on the Wi-Fi tile to see networks.
- Right-click the network and select Forget.
Why forget a network?
- It won’t connect. Forgetting it and joining again clears old settings. Microsoft suggests this when Wi-Fi has problems.
- You don’t want it to join on its own, such as a café or hotel network.
- The network changed. For example, the router was replaced or its security key changed.
Join the network again
Select the Network icon, pick the network, and select Connect. You’ll need to enter its security key again. If websites still won’t load after you reconnect, see how to flush the DNS cache in Windows 11.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just stop it from connecting automatically?
Yes. In Manage known networks, select the network and turn off Connect automatically when in range. Windows remembers it but won’t join on its own.
Does forgetting a network affect other devices?
No. It only removes the network from this PC.
If forgetting the network doesn’t help, try resetting your network settings in Windows 11.
For a wired connection instead, see how to set up an Ethernet connection in Windows 11.
If you’re moving from a cable to wireless, see how to switch from Ethernet to Wi-Fi in Windows 11.
Microsoft’s reference is Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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