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
    2013-11-21T00:54:50+00:00

    It's really strange that more people haven't had this.

    Can someone from Microsoft get involved on this issue please.

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  2. Anonymous
    2013-12-21T09:39:42+00:00

    I am having exactly the same problem. Has anyone heard back from Windows?

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  3. Anonymous
    2013-12-27T11:01:23+00:00

    Hi,

    1. What happens, when you try to turn off "Automatically Connect?
    2. What is the make and model of the comuter?
    3. Did you refer to the previous responses?

    Run the hardware troubleshooter and check the issue status. Follow the steps:

    a.       Press “Windows key + W”.

    b.      Type “Troubleshooter” in the Search box and hit enter.

    c.       Select “Hardware and Sound” from the Troubleshooter Window.

    d.      Select “Hardware and Devices” under Devices option.

    e.      Follow the On Screen instructions.

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  4. Anonymous
    2013-12-29T23:14:48+00:00

    Steps to reproduce the problem....

    Ensure there are no other wireless networks available in your vicinity..

    1. Create a new unsecured wireless network.
    2. Start your Windows 8 machine.

    Note :

    1. the machine will, automatically on startup, connect to the the wireless network from step 1.
    2. Since the wireless network is new and not previously known, there is KNOW WAY to disable autoconnection, until it has been registered, which by then it is too late.

    I repeat - the scenario is, that as a traveler, you are constantly exposed to open wireless networks, some of quite dubious nature.

    Windows 8 seems to have a default setting to connect to any open wireless network, INCLUDING PREVIOUS UNKNOWN ONES - and this is the issue.  It will always, or so it seems connect to previously unknown open wireless networks, when no other network is available....

    This is SERIOUSLY WRONG!!!! imho!

    Again, i cannot believe this is not being tested by anyone.

    Thanks in advance for your help :)

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