To switch from Ethernet to Wi-Fi in Windows 11, unplug the Ethernet cable, then select the Network icon on the taskbar, make sure Wi-Fi is on, select the arrow next to it, and connect to your network. Windows 11 always prefers a working wired connection when both are available, so as long as the cable is plugged in and working, most traffic goes over Ethernet even if Wi-Fi is also connected.
Applies to: Windows 11. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 30, 2026.
Why Windows keeps using Ethernet
When a PC has both a wired and a wireless connection, Windows gives each one a priority and sends internet traffic over the best one, which is almost always Ethernet. That’s why connecting to Wi-Fi alone often doesn’t change anything while the cable is still plugged in. The simplest way to switch is to remove the wired connection.
Step 1: Unplug the Ethernet cable
Unplug the cable from your PC, or from the USB or dock adapter if your laptop uses one. Within a few seconds, Windows notices that Ethernet is gone. If you’ve connected to your Wi-Fi network before, it connects automatically.
If you can’t reach the cable, for example because it’s behind a desk, see “Keep the cable but use Wi-Fi” below.
Step 2: Turn on Wi-Fi and connect
- Select the Network, Sound or Battery icon next to the clock on the taskbar, or press Windows logo key + A, to open Quick Settings.
- If the Wi-Fi tile is off, select it to turn Wi-Fi on.
- Select the arrow (>) on the Wi-Fi tile to see available networks.
- Select your network, then select Connect. Leave Connect automatically checked if you want Windows to use it next time.
- Enter the network security key if Windows asks for it.
You can also do this in Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Show available networks.
If there’s no Wi-Fi tile at all, your PC may not have a wireless adapter. Most laptops do, but many desktop PCs don’t. A USB Wi-Fi adapter adds Wi-Fi to a desktop.
Step 3: Check that you’re on Wi-Fi
- Select Start > Settings > Network & internet.
- At the top, you should see your Wi-Fi network with Connected. Ethernet further down should say Not connected.
The Network icon on the taskbar also changes from a screen shape (Ethernet) to curved Wi-Fi bars.
Keep the cable but use Wi-Fi
If you want to leave the cable plugged in and still use Wi-Fi, you have to stop Windows from using the wired connection. There are two ways, and both need administrator rights on the PC:
- Disable the Ethernet adapter in Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
- Change the network priority (the “interface metric”) so Wi-Fi comes first.
On a work or school PC, ask your IT department. On your own PC, it’s usually simpler to unplug the cable. Unplugging doesn’t change any settings, so switching back is just a matter of plugging it in again.
Switch back to Ethernet
Plug the Ethernet cable back in. Windows switches to it automatically within a few seconds, even if Wi-Fi stays on. You don’t need to disconnect from Wi-Fi first. For help with a wired connection, see how to set up an Ethernet connection in Windows 11.
Wi-Fi or Ethernet: which should you use?
- Ethernet is usually faster and steadier, with lower lag. It’s best for gaming, video calls and large downloads.
- Wi-Fi lets you move around and doesn’t need a cable. It’s slower through walls and further from the router.
Many people keep both: Ethernet at the desk and Wi-Fi when they move the laptop. Windows handles the switch on its own.
If Wi-Fi won’t connect after you unplug Ethernet
- Wi-Fi is off. Turn on the Wi-Fi tile in Quick Settings, and make sure Airplane mode is off.
- Your network isn’t listed. Move closer to the router, and select the refresh icon in the Wi-Fi list.
- It says “Can’t connect to this network.” Forget the network and connect again. See how to forget a Wi-Fi network in Windows 11.
- Connected, but no internet. Restart your router, then your PC. If it still fails, see how to reset network settings in Windows 11.
- Wi-Fi is set as metered and apps won’t update. See how to turn off a metered connection in Windows 11.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Ethernet and Wi-Fi at the same time?
Both can be connected at once, but Windows sends almost all internet traffic over the one with higher priority, which is usually Ethernet.
Why does my PC still use Ethernet after I connect to Wi-Fi?
Because the cable is still plugged in. Windows prefers the wired connection. Unplug it to switch.
Do I have to reconnect to Wi-Fi every time I unplug?
No. If you left Connect automatically checked, Windows reconnects on its own.
Does switching to Wi-Fi change my IP address?
Yes. Each connection gets its own address from the router. That doesn’t affect normal browsing.
Is Wi-Fi less secure than Ethernet?
Your home Wi-Fi is safe as long as it uses a network security key. On public Wi-Fi, such as in a café, keep the network set to Public in Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > your network, so other devices can’t see your PC.
Why is Wi-Fi slower than my Ethernet connection?
Walls, distance and other nearby networks slow Wi-Fi down. If your router offers a 5 GHz network, often shown with “5G” in its name, connect to that when you’re in the same room for better speed.
Next steps
If you share your connection with other devices, see how to turn on mobile hotspot in Windows 10. Microsoft covers network settings in Essential network settings and tasks in Windows.
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.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.