How to Set Preferred Wi-Fi Network on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s be honest: no one wants their device randomly connecting to the wrong Wi-Fi at the worst possible moment—like when you're just about to hit “Send” on that killer presentation. Windows 11 has brought a sleek, user-friendly operating system to the table, but setting a preferred Wi-Fi network is still a critical task that many users overlook. Thankfully, with a few simple steps, you can prioritize your networks and make sure your PC connects to the right Wi-Fi every time.
In this guide, we’ll break down the exact steps—using both Windows settings and commands—on how to manage Wi-Fi preferences and ensure smooth connectivity. Let’s dive in.

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Why Set a Preferred Wi-Fi Network?​

Before we get into the technical stuff, consider this: Imagine being in an office with multiple Wi-Fi networks. Windows will, by default, connect to whatever it last remembers using—regardless of how reliable or speedy the connection is. By setting a preferred Wi-Fi network, you’re telling your PC to always prioritize the most stable, fastest, or most reliable connection when available.
Whether you need a stable connection for remote work, gaming, or streaming, this tiny tweak could save you from endless frustration.

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Step 1: Check Your Saved Wi-Fi Networks​

First things first: let’s see the list of networks Windows remembers on your device.

Using Windows Terminal​

• Open Windows Terminal as an admin:
• Right-click the Start Menu.
• Select Windows Terminal (Admin).
• Input the following command:
  

  plaintext
  
     netsh wlan show profiles

  This will display all the Wi-Fi networks your PC has connected to in the past, along with their saved profiles.

Shortly after running this command, you’ll see a tidy list of all the networks along with their names. Got it? Great—onto prioritization!

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Step 2: Prioritize Your Preferred Wi-Fi Network​

Setting a preferred Wi-Fi network essentially involves assigning it a priority number (lower numbers = higher preference). To do this, we use another netsh command.

Command to Set Priority​

Enter the following command in Windows Terminal:

netsh wlan set profileorder name="<Wi-Fi Name>" interface="Wi-Fi" priority=<Priority Number>

Here’s how you customize it:

• Replace <Wi-Fi Name> with the name of the Wi-Fi network you want to prioritize. For example, "MyHomeNetwork".
• Replace <Priority Number> with a number, such as 1 for top priority.

For example:

netsh wlan set profileorder name="MyHomeNetwork" interface="Wi-Fi" priority=1

This command does a couple of nifty things:

• It moves your preferred network to the top of the priority list.
• When you’re within range, your PC will always try connecting to this network first.

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Step 3: Confirm Priority Settings​

Once you’ve updated the priority order, it’s a good idea to double-check that your changes stuck.
Run this command in the terminal:

netsh wlan show profiles

Look for your preferred network. It should appear at the top of the list.
Got it? Perfect. At this point, your device will connect to the right network when in range—no more awkward guessing games at cafes or co-working spaces.

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Bonus Tweaks: Prevent Autoconnecting to Certain Networks​

Tired of Windows latching onto weak networks like it's clinging to its ex? You can prevent your PC from reconnecting to specific networks automatically.
Here’s how:

• Head to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
• Select Manage known networks.
• Choose the unwanted network and toggle off Connect automatically.

Pro tip: If you like taking control, you can also manually connect to networks using the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray.

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Step 4: Configure the Preferred Wi-Fi Band Frequency​

Sometimes, prioritizing a frequency band can be just as important as prioritizing the network itself. Modern routers broadcast on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and each band has its trade-offs:

• 2.4 GHz: Better range but slower speeds.
• 5 GHz: Faster speeds but shorter range.

If your router and adapter support this, you can specify which band you want to prioritize. Here’s how:

• Access Device Manager:
• Right-click the Start Menu and select Device Manager.
• Find Your Wi-Fi Adapter:
• Double-click Network Adapters.
• Locate and highlight your wireless adapter, then right-click and select Properties.
• Set Preferred Band:
• Go to the Advanced tab.
• Select Preferred Band in the Property list.
• Use the Value dropdown to choose either 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or Auto (let Windows decide).
• Click OK to save your changes.

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Why Does This All Matter for Windows 11?​

Compared to Windows 10, Windows 11 offers better integration of Wi-Fi management features, but it still retains a lot of the power-user tools from its earlier iterations. The combination of intuitive UI controls (like the Manage Known Networks option) and robust command-line tools (netsh) makes it flexible enough for casual users and tech enthusiasts alike.

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Final Thoughts​

Setting your preferred Wi-Fi network and frequency on Windows 11 isn’t just about convenience—it’s about optimizing your digital life. Whether you’re working remotely or streaming the latest binge-worthy show, ensuring a fast, stable connection is half the battle.
So, next time your neighbor’s funky-named Wi-Fi tries to hijack your connection priorities, remember: you call the shots now, not your PC.
Got questions? Troubleshooting tips? Share your experiences on our forums below. Let’s get everyone connected smoothly.

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Source: The Windows Club https://www.thewindowsclub.com/how-to-set-preferred-wifi-network-on-windows