How to Open & Change Network Adapter Settings? [2026]
The network adapter is the component that allows your computer to connect to the internet through WiFi, Ethernet, or other connections. Windows provides a dedicated section where you can manage these adapters. From this area, you can enable or disable connections, view connection status, configure IP address settings, change DNS servers, or troubleshoot network problems.
There are several ways to open network adapter settings in Windows 10 and Windows 11. The most common methods include using the Control Panel, Settings app, Run command, and Device Manager. Once you open the adapter settings window, you can right-click on any network connection to change its configuration.
Changing network adapter settings is useful when you want to switch between a wired and wireless connection, reset network settings, or manually configure internet settings provided by your network administrator or internet service provider.
In this guide, you will learn several methods to access the settings and understand what each option does.
How to Open & Change Network Adapter Settings?
To open and change network adapter settings on Windows, go to the Control Panel, select Network and Internet, open Network and Sharing Center, and click Change adapter settings. From there, right-click on any adapter, such as WiFi or Ethernet, to modify properties, disable, enable, or configure settings like DNS and IP address.
Understanding each step will help you avoid errors and ensure your network works smoothly.
Step 1: Open Network Adapter Settings via Control Panel
The first and most reliable way to access network adapter settings is through the Control Panel. This method works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Start by clicking on the Start menu on your Windows computer. Type Control Panel in the search bar and press Enter to open it. Once the Control Panel window appears, look for the option labeled Network and Internet and click on it.
Inside this section, select Network and Sharing Center. This area displays information about your current network connection and internet status. On the left side of the window, you will see an option called Change adapter settings. Click on this option to open the Network Connections window.
You will now see a list of all available network adapters on your system. These may include WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth network connections, and virtual adapters. From here, you can begin modifying any adapter according to your needs.
Step 2: Open Network Adapter Settings Using Windows Settings
Another simple way to open network adapter settings is through the Windows Settings app. This method is especially helpful for Windows 11 users.
Click the Start menu and select Settings. Once the Settings window opens, click on Network and Internet. This section shows your current network status and connection type.
Scroll down and select Advanced network settings. Under this section, you will find the option called More network adapter options. Clicking this link will open the same Network Connections window that appears through the Control Panel method.
This method is quick and user-friendly, making it ideal for beginners who prefer using the modern Settings interface instead of the traditional Control Panel.
Step 3: Open Network Adapter Settings Using the Run Command
The Run command provides one of the fastest ways to open network adapter settings directly.
Press the Windows key and the R key together on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. In the text field, type ncpa.cpl and press Enter. This command immediately opens the Network Connections window.
You will now see all network adapters listed. This shortcut saves time and is widely used by advanced users and technicians who need quick access to network configuration settings.
Step 4: View Network Adapter Status and Details
Once the Network Connections window is open, you can check the status of each adapter. Right-click on any adapter, such as WiFi or Ethernet, and select Status.
A new window will appear showing connection details like speed, signal quality, duration, and activity. Click on the Details button to view additional information such as IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.
This information helps you diagnose network issues and understand how your system is connected to the internet.
Step 5: Enable or Disable a Network Adapter
Sometimes you may need to disable a network adapter to troubleshoot connectivity issues or switch to another connection.
In the Network Connections window, right-click on the adapter you want to manage. Select Disable to turn off the adapter. The icon will appear greyed out, indicating it is inactive.
To enable it again, right-click on the same adapter and select Enable. This process refreshes the connection and can fix minor network problems.
Enabling and disabling adapters is useful when switching between WiFi and Ethernet or when resetting your network connection.
Step 6: Change IP Address and DNS Settings
You can manually configure IP address settings and DNS servers through network adapter properties.
Right-click on your preferred adapter and select Properties. A new window will display a list of connection items. Find and double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (IPv4).
Here you can choose between obtaining an IP address automatically or entering a manual IP address. To set a custom DNS server, select Use the following DNS server addresses and enter your preferred DNS values.
Click OK to save changes. Adjusting these settings can improve internet speed, fix connectivity problems, and allow access to restricted networks.
Customize the Name of a Network Adapter
Renaming a network adapter can help you identify connections easily, especially if you use multiple adapters.
In the Network Connections window, right-click on the adapter you want to rename and select Rename. Type a new name and press Enter. This change helps you distinguish between different connections quickly.
How to Troubleshoot Network Adapter Issues Using Adapter Settings?
If your internet is not working properly, you can troubleshoot the adapter directly.
Right-click on the network adapter and select Diagnose. Windows will run a built-in troubleshooting tool that detects and fixes common network issues automatically.
This feature helps resolve problems such as limited connectivity, missing drivers, or incorrect settings.
Faqs
How do I quickly open the network adapter settings?
Press Windows and R keys together, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter. This opens the Network Connections window instantly.
Can I change DNS settings from the network adapter settings?
Yes, open adapter properties, select Internet Protocol Version 4, and manually enter DNS server addresses to change DNS settings.
Why should I disable and enable a network adapter?
Disabling and enabling an adapter refreshes the connection and helps fix temporary network glitches or switching between connections.
Is it safe to change network adapter settings?
Yes, it is safe if you understand the settings. Avoid changing IP or DNS values unless required or provided by your network administrator or internet provider.
Where can I find network adapter settings in Windows 11?
Open Settings, go to Network and Internet, select Advanced network settings, and click More network adapter options.
Summary
- Open the Control Panel and access the Network and Sharing Center
- Click Change adapter settings to view all adapters
- Use Windows Settings to access advanced network options
- Open adapter settings quickly with the Run command
- Check network adapter status and connection details
- Enable or disable network adapters as needed
- Change IP address and DNS settings through properties