Windows is a widely used operating system with a useful tool called the Network and Sharing Center. It helps people control their internet connections easily. This tool started in Windows 7, where Microsoft added an essential network management feature. They called it the Network and Sharing Center. It’s been important ever since and keeps improving with each new Windows version, like Windows 8, 10, and 11.

In this article, we have discussed Windows Network and Sharing Center, how to access it and various settings in the center.

The Network and Sharing Center is found in the Windows Control Panel. Even though it hasn’t changed much since Windows 7, its main purpose is to provide users with important network settings. It covers things like wired connections (LAN), wireless connections (WiFi), VPNs, and other ways to connect to the Internet.

Also read: How to enable network discovery in Windows 11?

To open the Network and Sharing Center, you have access to the control panel, it is where the Network and Sharing Center is available in Windows.

Step 1: In the Windows search, type Control panel and click on the first result to open it.

Step 2: Click the Network and Internet option in the control panel.

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Step 3: Click on the Network and Sharing Center option.

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Step 4: You are in the Network and Sharing Center.

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Finding and using the Network and Sharing Center is quite easy. But in Windows 10 and 11, the method is a bit different. So, we chose to show you how that works in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.

Here are some network-related settings that you can adjust from the Network and Sharing Center:

Check the network type, like Private, Public, or Business.
Adjust LAN/WiFi settings.
Set up a new connection or network.
Troubleshoot problems, like slow internet or bad connections.
Change adapter settings

Public or Private Networks

Windows distinguishes between public and private networks, allowing you to customise network settings accordingly. For instance, on a public network, like a coffee shop WiFi, your PC’s visibility to other devices is limited, and certain sharing options may be disabled. You can configure more permissive sharing settings on a private network like your home network.

Set up a New Connection or Network

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Windows makes it easy to establish new network connections. You can add, remove, or prioritise connections as needed, whether it’s a wired Ethernet connection or a wireless WiFi network. If you want to set up a new connection in Windows 8/10, you have just four choices:

Connect to the Internet
Set up a new network
Manually connect to a wireless network
Connect to a workplace

Troubleshoot Problems

Windows has a built-in troubleshooting tool to diagnose and fix common network issues. If you’re experiencing connectivity problems, this feature can be a lifesaver.

Change Adapter Settings

You might not need this often, but when you click on the Change adapter settings option in the sidebar, it’s helpful when trying to troubleshoot network issues. You will see the list of all Network adapters connected to your PC. You’ll see both in the list if you have a WiFi card and Ethernet port. Sometimes, you might see extra adapters, but programs like VPNs or virtual machines usually make those.

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Below the change adapter settings, you will find the advanced sharing settings option in the sidebar. Windows provides various sharing options for files and printers. This feature lets you customise those settings to control who can access shared resources on your computer.

Also read: Why does my network adapter keep disconnecting in Windows 11?