To make your wired network private in Windows 11, you need to adjust the network profile settings for your Ethernet connection. This change enhances your security by making your PC less discoverable to other devices on the network.
Understanding Network Profiles: Public vs. Private
Windows 11 uses network profiles to determine the appropriate security settings and discoverability for your device.
- Private Network Profile: Ideal for home or trusted networks. Your PC is discoverable by other devices on the network, allowing for file sharing, printer sharing, and media streaming. The Windows Firewall is configured to be less restrictive.
- Public Network Profile: Recommended for untrusted networks like those found in coffee shops, airports, or public Wi-Fi hotspots. Your PC is hidden from other devices on the network, and the Windows Firewall applies stricter rules, blocking most incoming connections to protect your device.
For your wired (Ethernet) connection at home, a Private profile is generally preferred to allow seamless sharing within your trusted local network while maintaining a good level of security.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Wired Network to Private
Follow these simple steps to set your Ethernet connection to a private network profile in Windows 11:
-
Open Windows Settings:
- Click the Start button on your taskbar.
- Select Settings (the gear icon), or press
Windows key + Ion your keyboard.
-
Navigate to Network & Internet:
- In the Settings window, select Network & internet from the left-hand menu.
-
Access Ethernet Properties:
- On the right pane, locate the Ethernet section (your wired connection).
- Click on the Properties information associated with your Ethernet adapter. This will open the detailed settings for your wired connection.
-
Set Network Profile to Private:
- Within the Ethernet properties, find the Network profile type section.
- Select Private from the available options.
- If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), you may need to confirm the change by entering your administrator password.
Visualizing the Change
| Setting Name | Option to Select | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Network profile type | Private | Makes your PC discoverable and enables file/printer sharing on trusted networks. |
| Public | Hides your PC from other devices on untrusted networks. |
Why Choose a Private Network Profile for Your Home Wired Network?
- Enhanced Sharing: Allows you to easily share files, folders, and printers with other computers or devices connected to your home network.
- Device Discovery: Enables seamless discovery of other network devices (like smart TVs, media servers, or network-attached storage) from your Windows 11 PC.
- Optimized for Trusted Environments: The firewall rules are configured to balance security with functionality, suitable for an environment where you trust the other connected devices.
- Remote Desktop Access: If you plan to use features like Remote Desktop within your home network, a private profile is essential.
When to Consider Public Network Profile
Even for a wired connection, you might temporarily switch to a Public profile if:
- You are connecting your laptop via Ethernet in a highly untrusted environment (e.g., a hotel lobby's wired connection, if available).
- You want maximum isolation from other devices on a network and do not require any sharing functionalities.
By correctly configuring your wired network to "Private," you ensure your Windows 11 PC operates efficiently and securely within your home or trusted network environment.
