my windows 11 pc keeps switching to a public network

Adrian Prismall 25 Reputation points
2026-01-08T16:06:14.4566667+00:00

I have an windows 11 laptop. Nearly every time after it starts up the network is switched to being public when I am on my home router - this is the case whether I have a wired connection (through tp-link powerline adapters) or connecting wirelessly. I know how to switch it to private which does work until the next restart. I have tried all the advice I can find online including resetting the network stack, updating the network drives (uninstall and restart), removing and reconnecting. I have two users on the pc - one is an Admin account and the other which is the one I typically use is a standard user. I am also running Nortons 360 (which is up to date).

Anything else to try? This is extremely frustrating as when the network is public I can't see files on my NAS and some websites can be problematic.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Internet and connectivity
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Answer accepted by question author
Ivan B 122.3K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-01-08T17:07:48.8+00:00

Hi,

In this case, when you connect via cable or wirelessly, it changes to a public network.

If you are using Norton 360 and this happens on Wi-Fi, check if the Wi-Fi security option is enabled. Reset the settings and activate VPN so it recognizes it as a public network.

Thank you.

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  1. AI answer

    2026-01-08T16:06:29.03+00:00

    It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating issue with your Windows 11 laptop defaulting to a public network setting. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this issue:

    1. Network Profile Settings: Ensure that your home network is set to "Private". You can do this by going to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network and Sharing Center. From there, click on your network connection and set it to Private.
    2. Network Location Type: Sometimes, Windows might not recognize your network correctly. Make sure that your network is set to Home or Work instead of Public. You can check this in the Network and Sharing Center as well.
    3. Group Policy Editor: If you're using Windows 11 Pro, you can use the Group Policy Editor to enforce the network type. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Network List Manager Policies. Here, find your network and set it to Private.
    4. Registry Editor: If the issue persists, you might want to check the registry settings. Open the Registry Editor and navigate to:
      • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles
      • Find your network profile and ensure that the "Category" value is set to 1 (which indicates a Private network).
    5. Network Adapter Settings: Check your network adapter settings to ensure that they are configured correctly. You can access this by going to Device Manager > Network adapters, right-clicking your adapter, and selecting Properties. Make sure that all settings are correct and that the drivers are up to date.
    6. Firewall and Antivirus: Sometimes, security software can interfere with network settings. Since you're using Norton 360, check its settings to ensure that it is not blocking your network from being recognized as Private.
    7. Windows Updates: Ensure that your Windows 11 is fully updated, as updates can sometimes resolve connectivity issues.

    If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

    References:

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