How To Change Adapter Settings In Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Home » How-To

5 min. read

Published on October 23, 2025

Fix Windows errors with Fortect:
Fortect can repair common computer errors by scanning your entire system for damaged or missing OS files and replacing them with the original, working versions. Optimize your PC in 3 simple steps:

Download and Install Fortect on your PC
Use the PC Scan feature to look up any Windows issues (including drivers)
Right-click on Repair, and fix it within a few minutes.

Besides that, it helps you clean up junk files, fix stability problems, and get rid of annoying programs and malware traces.

Managing your network adapters is crucial for troubleshooting connectivity issues or configuring specific network settings in Windows 11. Whether you need to disable an adapter, update its drivers, or modify its IP address, accessing and changing these settings is a fundamental skill for any Windows user. This guide will walk you through the process of how to change adapter settings in Windows 11, ensuring you can easily manage your network connections.

This step-by-step tutorial provides clear instructions on locating and modifying your adapter settings, enabling you to optimize your network performance and resolve common network problems. Follow along to gain a better understanding of how to control your network connections in Windows 11.

How Do I Access and Modify Adapter Settings in Windows 11?

Accessing Network Connections Settings

To begin, you’ll need to access the Network Connections settings in Windows 11. This is where all your network adapters are listed.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter. This command directly opens the Network Connections window.

Identifying Your Network Adapter

Once the Network Connections window is open, you’ll see a list of your network adapters. It’s important to identify the correct adapter before making any changes.

Look for the adapter name that corresponds to your active network connection (e.g., Ethernet, Wi-Fi).
If you’re unsure, disconnect and reconnect to your network. The active adapter will usually display a brief “Identifying…” status.

Changing Adapter Properties

Now that you’ve identified your adapter, you can modify its properties.

Right-click on the adapter you want to modify.
Select Properties from the context menu.
In the Properties window, you’ll see a list of network components. Select the component you want to configure (e.g., Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)) and click the Properties button.

Configuring IP Address

One of the most common reasons to change adapter settings is to configure a static IP address.

In the properties of Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), select Use the following IP address.
Enter the desired IP address, Subnet mask, and Default gateway.
You can also specify Preferred DNS server and Alternate DNS server addresses.
Click OK to save your changes.

Disabling and Enabling Adapters

Sometimes, disabling and re-enabling an adapter can resolve connectivity issues.

Right-click on the adapter you want to disable.
Select Disable from the context menu.
To re-enable the adapter, right-click on it again and select Enable.

Updating Adapter Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause network problems. Updating your adapter drivers can often resolve these issues.

Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the Network adapters section.
Right-click on your network adapter and select Update driver.
Choose either Search automatically for drivers or Browse my computer for drivers, depending on whether you have the driver files already.

Resetting Network Adapter

Resetting your network adapter can resolve persistent connectivity issues.

Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
Click on Network & internet.
Select Advanced network settings.
Click on Network reset.
Click the Reset now button to reset your network adapter.

Changing Adapter Name

Changing the name of your adapter can help you easily identify it.

Right-click on the adapter you want to rename.
Select Rename from the context menu.
Enter the new name for the adapter and press Enter.

Tips for Managing Adapter Settings

Always create a system restore point before making significant changes to your adapter settings.
Keep your network adapter drivers updated to ensure optimal performance.
If you’re unsure about a setting, research it before making changes.
Document any changes you make to your adapter settings for future reference.

Mastering Your Windows 11 Network Adapters

Changing adapter settings in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these steps, you can confidently manage your network connections, troubleshoot issues, and optimize your network performance. With a little practice, you’ll be able to navigate the Network Connections settings like a pro.

FAQ

How do I find my adapter settings in Windows 11? You can find your adapter settings by pressing Windows key + R, typing ncpa.cpl, and pressing Enter.

Why can’t I change my adapter settings? You may not have administrator privileges, or the settings may be controlled by a network administrator.

How do I reset my network adapter in Windows 11? Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset and click Reset now.

What does disabling a network adapter do? Disabling a network adapter disconnects it from the network, preventing it from sending or receiving data.

How do I update my network adapter drivers in Windows 11? Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters, right-click on your adapter, select Update driver, and choose how to search for drivers.