The Network Profile is an essential feature of the Windows operating system. When you connect your PC to a network for the first time, you are prompted to decide whether you want your device to be discoverable by other PCs and devices on that network.
This prompt asks you to choose between Public and Private Networks. Whether you’re connecting via a wireless or wired connection, Windows will inquire about the type of network and the settings you wish to apply.
Private & Public Network Profiles
There are generally two types of network profiles: Private and Public.
– When you set a network profile to Public, your device remains hidden from others on the same network. This means that other devices won’t be able to access your files, printers, etc.
– Conversely, setting a network profile to Private makes your device discoverable, allowing other devices on the network to access your files, printers, and more.
Each profile employs different firewall settings, which can also be customized using third-party firewall applications on Windows.
1. Change the Network Profile Type Using Settings
If you want to change your network profile on Windows 11, follow these steps:
1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
2. In the Settings page, click on Network & Internet.
3. In the right pane, select your network connection. For example, if you are using a wired connection, click on Ethernet.
4. Under Network Profile type, choose either Public or Private.
5. To change the network profile for a wireless connection, navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
6. Under Wi-Fi, click on Manage known networks and select the active wireless connection.
7. On the next screen, choose either Public or Private.
Read More: How to Remove Sound from Videos in Windows 11
2. Change Network Type Using Registry Editor
You can also change the network profile type using the Windows Registry. Here’s how:
1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type `regedit` and press Enter.
2. This will open the Registry Editor. Navigate to the following path:
“`
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles
3. Under the Profiles folder, you will see several network profile folders. Click on each one to find the profile you wish to modify.
4. Select each profile and check the ProfileName value on the right side to identify the network name.
5. Once you locate the desired network profile, double-click on the Category DWORD value. In the value data field, enter one of the following options:
– For Public Networks: `0`
– For Private Networks: `1`
– For Domain Networks: `2`
For example, if you want to change the profile to Private, enter `1` and click OK. After making the changes, restart your computer.
3. Change the Network Profile Type Using Local Security Policy
Another method to change the network profile type is through the Local Security Policy editor. Here’s how to do it:
1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type `secpol.msc` and press Enter.
2. On the right side, select Network List Manager Policies. On the left, you will see all available networks.
3. Double-click on the network whose type you want to change.
4. Switch to the Network Location tab and change the location type to Private or Public.
After making your changes, click Apply and close the Local Security Policy Editor. Restart your computer to apply the changes. Learn More
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