Forgetting a network on Windows 11 is surprisingly straightforward, but sometimes it feels like Windows has a mind of its own. Maybe you connected to a Wi-Fi network once and now it keeps reconnecting even after reboots, or perhaps you’re just trying to clear out a bunch of old networks cluttering your list. Whatever the reason, here’s how to get rid of those remembered Wi-Fi networks, step-by-step, without breaking a sweat.
How to Forget a Network on Windows 11
This process helps prevent your PC from automatically reconnecting to a wireless network you no longer want. It’s useful if, for example, a network keeps popping up after forgetting it or if you’re troubleshooting connectivity issues. Expect that once done, your device won’t automatically connect to that network anymore—and you’ll have to re-enter the password if you want to connect again later.
Open Settings
- Click the Start button, then select Settings
- Or press Windows + I to get there fast
The Settings app is really the control center for most tweaks. It’s where you’ll find everything from Wi-Fi to privacy settings. Basically, your first stop for anything network-related.
Navigate to Network & Internet
- Once in Settings, click on Network & Internet
- This section covers all your connection options, like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and mobile data
When you’re trying to manage or forget a network, this section is where it all happens.
Choose Wi-Fi
- On the sidebar, find and click Wi-Fi
- This is the zone where wireless networks are managed
Because Windows 11 broke down wireless stuff into neat little categories, this is your hub for managing known networks and connecting to new ones.
Manage Known Networks
- Click on it, and you’ll see a list of all the Wi-Fi networks your device remembers
- This is the spot where networks are stored even if you’re not connected right now
If you’re looking for the network you want to forget, this list is where to find it. Sometimes, it’s a bit tricky if you have lots of saved networks, but just scroll or search for the name.
Forget the Network
- Click on the network’s name, then hit Forget
- Confirm if prompted
After clicking forget, Windows basically deletes the network from its memory. No more automatic reconnections. On some setups, it’s weird because the network might still flicker up after a reboot — kind of like Windows has a stubborn side. Restarting the PC usually clears that glitch, but not always.
That’s pretty much it. If you want to reconnect later, you’ll just find the network again in the Wi-Fi list and punch in the password like the first time.
Tips for Forgetting a Network on Windows 11
- Make sure to disconnect from the network before trying to forget it — sometimes Windows keeps trying to reconnect, which can mess things up.
- If a network stubbornly stays in the list, try restarting the machine — Windows isn’t always the sharpest tool right after changes.
- Regularly cleaning out old networks prevents clutter and accidental reconnections.
- If you’re troubleshooting issues, forgetting and re-adding can sometimes resolve strange connection bugs.
- Remember that once you forget a network, your saved password disappears — so, make sure you’ve got it handy if you reconnect later.
FAQs
What if I accidentally forget the wrong network?
You’ll just need to reconnect manually and re-enter the password — nothing too wild, but slightly annoying if you forget the right one instead!
Can I reconnect to a forgotten network later?
Totally. Just select it from the Wi-Fi network list and enter the password again. It’s like re-adding a contact.
Does forgetting a network delete the password?
Yep. It removes the saved password from Windows, so if you reconnect, you’ll have to type it again.
Why can’t I see the “Forget” option?
Make sure you’ve clicked on a network that’s actually in your known networks list. If it’s not there, it can’t be forgotten—Windows kind of refuses to forget what it doesn’t remember.
What if the network still shows up after forgetting it?
Try restarting your PC. Sometimes Windows is slow to update the UI, or it’s just cachey. Usually a restart fixes this little quirk.
Summary
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Click on Manage Known Networks.
- Choose the network and click Forget.
Wrap-up
Getting rid of unwanted Wi-Fi networks on Windows 11 isn’t too complex, but it’s one of those little things that can be oddly frustrating if Windows doesn’t update instantly. Once you know where to click, it’s all pretty straightforward—plus, it’ll help keep your list tidy and make troubleshooting easier. Just remember, sometimes a reboot can clear out lingering network quirks, so don’t panic if changes don’t stick immediately. Fingers crossed this saves someone a few headaches down the line.