"Connect Automatically" box is checked for all the networks in range

Anonymous
2013-08-23T03:59:16+00:00

Original Title: Why can't I prevent Windows 8 from automatically trying to connect to ALL networks in range?

I just purchased a new HP laptop with Windows 8, and this is my 1st experience with Win 8.

I have noticed that when I view the Network List of all networks within range, all of them have the "Connect Automatically" box ticked. I only wish to attempt to connect automatically to my own network. If I un-tick this box for all other networks it makes no difference -- when I look at it again, the box is ticked.

After researching this on the internet I found some advice which suggested right-clicking on the name of the network and selecting "Forget this network" from the menu that pops up. However, right-clicking on the name of any network other than my own does nothing -- no menu appears. If I right-click on the name of my own network this menu DOES appear ("Show estimated usage, Set as metered connection, Forget this network," etc.)

I have read a similar question posted here, as well as the answers given. It did not help. Stopping and starting the WLAN Autoconfig Services makes no difference:

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows\_8-networking/networks-pane-the-connect-automatically-checkbox/ae5c77fb-1234-4d5b-bf77-628f8b902a7d

It does not appear to me that this person got his/her question resolved adequately, and it seems I have the same concern.

Why is Win 8 configured to connect automatically to ALL networks on the list of available networks, and why am I unable to un-check the "Connect Automatically" box for networks I do not wish to automatically try to connect to? To clarify, I can un-check the box, but the change does not persist; if I move my mouse away from that network name, and then click on it again, "Connect Automatically" is checked again, regardless of the fact that I have just un-checked it.

And why can't I right-click on networks other than my own to access the menu choices which include "forget this network?"

I am a VERY frustrated Windows 8 user. I am about to wipe this stupid hard drive clean and install Linux instead. :(

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Internet and connectivity

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

61 answers

Sort by: Oldest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2016-09-09T09:58:13+00:00

    I too have seen this on my Windows 7 machine. It did not notice this until recently, perhaps the last month or so or perhaps longer. I noticed that my wireless connection at home was unstable and slow. It was only after a little bit I had the time to try to figure it out. I probably first noticed the "Connect Automatically" boxes being checked and not being able to be un-checked during the last month.

    Could this be a virus??

    HI ID_GIRL,

    Please see my response to Loreto dated 09.09.2016. 

    All the best.

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2016-09-09T10:03:25+00:00

    So is this where we left off....No Solution? I have Windows 7 with same issue. I thinks the whole world does.

    Hi JB, 

    Please see my response to Loreto dated 09.09.2016. 

    All the best.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2016-09-28T22:10:23+00:00

    THANK YOU VERY MUCH for this fix. It worked flawlessly!!!

    But I can't believe that NOBODY responded to you - not even a quick thanks...

    Sad to see people are getting so unappreciative these days.

    Anyway, I'm very happy with your solution and wanted to make sure you receive the credit you deserve!

    Best regards,

    -Vince

    Was this answer helpful?

    3 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  4. Anonymous
    2016-09-30T23:27:55+00:00

    Wow Vince,

    Many thanks. You actually restored my faith in humanity's manners. I provided a solution to a long running thread that was frustrating Windows users and you'd think a quick thanks would be sacrificed. Especially from the thread starter.

    The fact is my effort was worth it to benefit individuals like (unlike may be planted competitor complaints . . . or  is this mischevious conspiracy theory a step too far LOL).

    Enjoy your clean wifi profile.

    Regards.

    Was this answer helpful?

    1 person found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  5. Anonymous
    2016-09-30T23:30:43+00:00

    I cant remember the thread starter but in case it was you please accept my error (feel really embarrassed if it turns out to be you LOL).

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments