How to Change the Network from Public to Private in Windows 10

In today’s digitally connected world, managing your PC’s network settings is critical for both privacy and functionality. One of the most common concerns users have is how to change the network type, from public to private, to ensure optimal security and accessibility. Whether you’re configuring a home network, connecting to office Wi-Fi, or securing your laptop at a coffee shop, understanding the Windows 10 network profile settings is essential.

This guide covers all available methods for changing your network type, explains the technical differences, and includes step-by-step instructions. We’ll also address commonly asked questions at the end for your convenience.

When you connect to a new network, Windows 10 sets a network location type: either Public or Private. Here’s what they mean:

Profile Type	Description	Use Case
Public	Your PC is hidden from other devices on the network. File/printer sharing is disabled.	Public Wi-Fi, hotels, airports
Private	Your PC is discoverable, and file/printer sharing is allowed.	Home or trusted networks

The Windows 10 change network type action is often required when network discovery or file sharing isn’t working properly, or you need to access shared folders and devices like printers.

This is the most user-friendly method for most users.

Steps:

1. Click on the Start Menu and choose Settings (⚙️ icon).
2. Go to Network & Internet.
3. Choose Wi-Fi (or Ethernet if using LAN).
4. Click on your connected network.
5. Under Network Profile, select Private instead of Public.

This updates your Windows 10 set network location instantly and is effective for most home and office setups.

PowerShell offers precise control and is ideal for scripting or managing multiple systems.

Steps:

1. Search and open Windows PowerShell as Administrator.
2. Type the following to view current network profiles:

Get-NetConnectionProfile

3. Note the Name of your network connection.
4. Change to Private with this command:

Set-NetConnectionProfile -Name “YourNetworkName” -NetworkCategory Private

Using PowerShell ensures full backend control over Windows 10 network profile settings, especially in corporate environments.

If you want a policy-based approach to enforce settings across users.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type secpol.msc, press Enter.
2. Navigate to:
   Network List Manager Policies > [Your Network Name]
3. Double-click and go to the Network Location tab.
4. Choose Private, apply changes.

 This method is not available in Windows 10 Home editions.

Only proceed if you’re comfortable editing the Windows Registry.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, press Enter.
2. Navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles

3. You’ll see multiple GUIDs (folders). Click each and look for the ProfileName matching your network.
4. Double-click Category and change the value:
   • 0 = Public
   • 1 = Private
   • 2 = Domain (for corporate environments)
5. Close the Registry and reboot.

Backup your registry before editing. This gives deep access to Windows 10 switch network type.

Perfect for IT administrators managing multiple endpoints.

Steps:

1. Open the Group Policy Editor:
   Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, press Enter.
2. Navigate to:

Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Network List Manager Policies

3. Select your desired network.
4. Set the location type to Private.

This approach integrates well with Active Directory for enterprise-wide enforcement of Windows 10 Wi-Fi network type change.

You can confirm your current network status via:

Control Panel

1. Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Check the profile listed under your active network (Private or Public).

PowerShell:

powershell

Get-NetConnectionProfile

This shows:

• InterfaceAlias
• NetworkCategory
• IPv4Connectivity

This helps confirm the result of your Windows 10 change network type operation.

Windows Firewall Behavior Based on Network Type

Windows Firewall adapts based on your selected network type:

Network Type	Inbound Connections	File & Printer Sharing	Discoverable Devices
Public	Blocked by default	Disabled	Hidden
Private	Allowed (with settings)	Enabled	Visible

Understanding this helps optimize performance and security depending on your use case.

Scenario	Recommended Type	Reason
Home Wi-Fi	Private	Enables device discovery and printer sharing
Office LAN	Private	Collaboration and resource sharing
Airport/Hotel Wi-Fi	Public	Maximum security; no device discovery
Shared Café Internet	Public	Protects your device from others

For advanced users, you can automate profile switching based on location or SSID using Task Scheduler + PowerShell.

Example Script:

powershell

$net = Get-NetConnectionProfile

if ($net.Name -eq “HomeWiFi”) {

  Set-NetConnectionProfile -Name “HomeWiFi” -NetworkCategory Private

}

Set this to run at login via Task Scheduler for automatic Windows 10 Wi-Fi network type change.

Final Thoughts

Changing your network from Public to Private in Windows 10 isn’t just about functionality, it’s a matter of security and control. Whether you’re a casual user or a network administrator, these multiple approaches offer you flexibility in how to manage your system.

No matter your method, always double-check your changes using PowerShell’s Get-NetConnectionProfile or Control Panel for verification. With this knowledge, you’re equipped to confidently manage your Windows 10 network profile settings anytime, anywhere.