How do I change my network from public to private Ethernet?

Secure your home or work PC by switching your Windows network to private

Updated on August 4, 2021

What to Know

• Wireless, select the Wi-Fi network icon > Properties > Network profile > Private. 
• Ethernet, right-click on the Ethernet network icon > Open Network & Internet settings > Properties > Network profile > Private.
• Use Advanced Sharing Settings to set up network discoverability and file and printer sharing on a private network.

When you connect a Windows 10 PC to the internet for the first time, a prompt asks you to select the kind of network you want to use. Windows uses this setting to secure a Windows PC and share permissions when connecting through Wi-Fi, a wired Ethernet connection, or a USB modem. 

You can set your connection as public or private. This choice depends on where you are and what you want to do on that network. This article will show you the difference between a public and a private network and how to change the Windows 10 network to private when you are on a public one. 

What Are Public and Private Networks on Windows 10

A Private network is a trusted network at home or work. Devices on the same network can see each other and can also share files and printers. 

A Public network is apt for social locations like airport lounges and coffee shops with public Wi-Fi hotspots. Other devices on the network can’t see your computer, and file and printer sharing are turned off. Windows is stricter with security on public networks. 

The choice between two network profiles is made the first time you connect to a network. But you can change this setting anytime.

How Do I Change From Public to Private Network in Windows 10?

You may have chosen a public profile for your network setting when connected to an internet connection for the first time. But Windows allows you to change the network profile from public to private anytime (and vice-versa). For instance, when browsing from a public Wi-Fi hotspot, switch to the Public network profile. Back home, switch over to the trusted Private profile. 

Change a Wireless Network to Private

In this instance, let’s assume Windows is connected to a public network, and you would like to switch to a private network instead.

1. Select the Wi-Fi network icon on the right side of the taskbar.

2. Select Properties under the name of the connected Wi-Fi network. 

3. Select the radio button for Private.

Tip:

The radio buttons are also accessible from Start > Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Select the name of the connection.

Change a Wired Network to Private

To secure a wired Ethernet as a private network, follow these steps.

1. Select Start > Settings > Network & Internet.

2. Select Ethernet from the left sidebar. You can also select the Properties button under the Ethernet connection on the Status screen.

3. Select the Ethernet connection name on the right. 

4. Under Network Profile, select the radio button for Private when you want to switch from a Public network. 

Tip:

To quickly access the radio buttons, right-click on the Ethernet network icon on the taskbar. Click on Open Network & Internet settings, then select the Properties button for the Ethernet connection on the Status screen. 

Customize Advanced Sharing Settings for a Private Network in Windows 10

Public and private profiles have specific options for network discovery with file and printer sharing. These options give you more control over what to block or allow via your network. For instance, Windows switches on network discoverability by default when you switch to a Private network. You can choose to turn off network discoverability from the Network and Sharing Center on Windows 10. The same configuration screen can also enable or disable file and printer sharing in Windows 10 for the two network profiles.

You can select the Public network when you don’t intend to connect to any other computer or share files and printers. 

FAQ

• Should my network be set to public or private?

  Only make a network private if you intend to communicate with other devices on the network (such as printers). Otherwise, make the network public to protect your computer from outside interference.

• Why can't I see other computers on my network?

  You won't see other devices on the network unless network discovery is enabled. If you can't see other computers on the network even though network discovery is enabled, you may need to enable file and printer sharing in your firewall settings.

• How do I hide my Wi-Fi network?

  If you don't want others to see your network at all, you can hide your SSID by logging into your router and going to the wireless network settings. Your network name will not be visible to anyone but you.

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