Cannot turn off 'automatically connect' option on WIFI connections

Anonymous
2013-06-19T04:07:13+00:00

This I think is either really strange or normal.

I have windows 8 on my notebook and an Inter Centrino N-2230 wireless adapter.

Recently, all WIFI connections that appear as available have the 'connect automatically' option checked. I uncheck the box, but they automatically get checked again.  I am sure that previously, all wifi connections had the box unchecked by default.

However this is NOT the case with the one wifi connection I primarily use, ie my home cable connection. I can uncheck the option for this one and it stays unchecked. Bizarre.

I am a bit concerned that if I use my notebook near an unsecured connection, it will automatically connect to this without my knowing resulting in security concerns.

Any idea if this is an issue, and how to resolve it?

Thanks

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Internet and connectivity

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Anonymous
2014-03-08T01:36:03+00:00

I assume that all of the trouble machines that are automatically connecting are using Intel PROSet Wireless Tools.  Simple fix.

Goto the Control Panel.  

Type Wireless in the search panel.

If Intel PROSet Wireless Tools is an option click it (if not then you may have another issue)

Under the option Intel Wifi HotSpot Assistant click Settings

Uncheck Automatically Connect to free WiFi Hotspots.  

Click Close 

Your DONE!

Problem Solved Unless you are not using Intel PROSet Wireless Tools.

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  1. Anonymous
    2016-08-22T01:59:58+00:00

    I got a brilliant idea. If you're going to put a check box there that can be unchecked, make unchecking it ACTUALLY DO SOMETHING!!!

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-10-02T21:10:54+00:00

    I have "upgraded" to WIN10, and STILL have the same problem. My computer wants to connect to an unsecured router down the street. I cannot turn off automatically connect. It just keeps coming back!!!

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  3. Anonymous
    2014-08-25T15:34:38+00:00

    I am having the exact same problem you all have described. One additional comment... On my Wireless Network Properties tab, the "Look for other wireless networks while connected to this network" is greyed out and, thus, cannot be selected or unselected.

    I have a "hidden network" to which my computer keeps connecting. Unchecking the auto connect button does nothing as it immediately goes back to "checked" status. Microsoft needs to fix this NOW.

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  4. Anonymous
    2013-06-20T17:56:35+00:00

    Hi,

    Thank you for the reply.

    I would have you refer to the below article.

    Manage wireless network profiles

    http://windows.microsoft.com/en-in/windows-8/manage-wireless-network-profiles

    Hope this information helps you. If you need further assistance on this please do reply with all the additional information about your computer and the issue.

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