Forget a Wi-Fi Network in Windows 8.1 - How To
A Peculiar Network Naming Issue
An interesting problem arose following a recent relocation – upon configuring my wireless router in a new residence, I encountered difficulty altering the name of the device’s wired network connection on Windows 8 computers directly connected to it, despite numerous attempts.
This issue persisted for several weeks, and I repeatedly revisited it, seeking a solution. However, when a straightforward answer proves elusive and conventional troubleshooting steps fail, I tend to abandon the effort temporarily. It mirrors the frustration of encountering complex puzzles in video games; if progress stalls, I often switch to a different title. Essentially, if time passes without demonstrable results, I postpone the task, with the possibility of revisiting it later.
To summarize, I transferred this router from a previous home, and the existing network names – both the SSID and the Ethernet identifier – were specific to that location, necessitating changes.
Modifying the "Service Set Identifier" is straightforward. The router now boasts a playful name inspired by my feline companion (no criticism, he’s quite a distinguished cat):
Connecting to the router via WiFi establishes a connection labeled "SmoothBGuac," and any SSID modifications are reflected across all connected devices. However, when a Windows 8.1 PC initially connects via Ethernet (using a Cat5 cable), the wired connection is named based on the current SSID. Subsequently, even if the SSID is altered, the wired connection retains its original name – with no readily apparent method for changing it.
The Importance of a Wired Connection
My primary computer serves as my main workstation – a typical, somewhat loud, black tower with dual monitors and a large keyboard. Whenever feasible, this machine connects to the router through a traditional Ethernet cable. (The router model is a Netgear WGR614, with firmware that is not upgradable, though it remains dependable and functional.) A wired connection provides stability and security, and my PC’s motherboard has limited expansion slots, eliminating the need for a dedicated wireless adapter.
When a wireless connection is required – for testing or capturing screenshots, for example – I utilize a simple USB Wi-Fi adapter.
Consequently, How-To Geek aimed to discover a way to compel Windows to rename the wired connection without resorting to drastic measures like reinstalling the operating system or creating a new user profile. Through collaborative investigation, we uncovered that this is achievable, relatively easily, though the process isn’t immediately obvious and shouldn’t cause such confusion.
The Evolution of Computer Networking
Connecting computers was not always the straightforward process it is today. Historically, establishing a network could be a complex undertaking. Prior to the widespread adoption of Windows 95, a “home network” was a rarity. Many homes lacked computers altogether, and those that did typically featured large, bulky machines with substantial CRT monitors.
Even when computers were connected to the Internet, it was often through a modem – a connection characterized by its slow data transfer rates. Networking’s simplification was contingent upon the integration of networking components directly onto motherboards.
Modern Network Connectivity
Operating systems needed to adapt to facilitate seamless connections, and the affordability of both wired and wireless routers played a crucial role. Currently, most devices possess a network adapter, and a network, even if primarily serving as an Internet gateway, is commonplace.
Examining the wired network adapter in the taskbar’s system tray reveals a connection to “MrKittyNet”. This indicates that the system’s Ethernet adapter (Eth0) is physically linked to the wireless router, identified as “MrKittyNet” by the system.
Windows appears to automatically assign the router’s SSID when a connection is established via Cat5 cable for the first time.
Investigating the Connection Name
The following images illustrate the wired adapter’s appearance within the desktop control panel and the tooltip displayed on the connection icon in the taskbar system tray:
Selecting the system tray icon presents the same information within the "Networks" panel:
Consequently, whenever the computer connects to this specific wireless router – a standard Netgear model readily available in stores or online – the connection consistently assumes the name "MrKittyNet", even after the SSID has been altered.
Troubleshooting the Connection Identifier
Attempts to modify the router’s settings to affect the connection name proved unsuccessful. The “Device Name” setting within the “LAN Setup” tab of the “Advanced” settings appeared promising:
However, this setting only renames the device as it appears within the network as the gateway. The following image shows this device name for comparative purposes:
Although renaming the SSID also failed to resolve the issue, it suggests that the solution lies within the operating system’s configuration.
Addressing Network Recognition Issues
When attempting to resolve network identification problems, the Windows "Networking and Sharing Center" presents itself as a logical starting point due to its straightforward design.
Initial investigation focuses on the "change adapter settings" function. This area provides access to network adapter configurations.
Several options are available, with renaming the connection appearing most viable. However, this action only alters the adapter's name—in this case, "Eth0".
The designation of the connection as "Status" is also noteworthy. Despite these attempts, no solution is found within this section.
It became clear that the network adapter, labeled "Eth0", is distinct from the name assigned to the actual connection with the router. Consequently, further research via online search was necessary.
A Fond Remembrance of Windows 7
While we currently utilize Windows 8.1 due to its stability and security features, and its ability to run effectively on older, less powerful computers, we often find ourselves recalling Windows 7. Its broad compatibility with a vast range of Windows applications and games is a significant advantage. However, a particular feature we miss is the straightforward method for viewing and deleting previously connected wireless networks.
Although Windows 8.1 does allow for the removal of wireless networks, the process isn't as intuitive as it was in Windows 7. Windows 7 offered a readily accessible graphical history within the networking panel. Interestingly, Windows 8.1 represents a step backward from Windows 8, which permitted users to right-click on visible networks and select the "forget" option.
The functionality in Windows 8.1 necessitates the use of the command line, leading to questions about the design choices made by Microsoft.
Begin by searching for "cmd" or pressing "WIN KEY + R" to open the run dialog and execute "cmd".
From the command line interface, enter the command "netsh wlan show profiles".
Subsequently, use the command "netsh wlan delete profile name=ProfileName" to remove a specific network.
For instance, to delete a network named "dlink-BADF", you would type "netsh wlan delete profile name=dlink-BADF". This effectively removes the network from the stored history. It's important to note that this method applies specifically to wireless networks. As demonstrated, if a network like "MrKittyNet" isn't listed, this approach won't be effective, representing a limitation despite its usefulness.
Addressing Network Name Discrepancies via the Windows Registry
A solution to this issue resides within the Windows registry. Modifying the registry requires utilizing the Registry Editor, a potent tool that, if misused, could lead to system instability. A standard disclaimer applies: ensure you possess adequate knowledge and create backups before making any changes. We assume no liability for any adverse outcomes.
To begin, search for "regedit" or launch it via the "WIN KEY + R" command. Administrator privileges are necessary to proceed with this process.
A swift method involves searching (using F3) for the name of the wired network you intend to alter. In this instance, we located three instances of "MrKittyNet" within the registry. Two of these are registry keys and can be disregarded, as they do not affect the connection's displayed name.
The relevant "MrKittyNet" entry for modification is situated at this path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\Profiles
Expanding the "Profiles" key will typically reveal further subkeys. As illustrated, the "ProfileName" string's Data value is the element that requires adjustment.
Right-click the "ProfileName" string and select "Modify". Now, input the desired name for your wireless SSID to ensure consistency between connections:
Confirm the change by clicking "OK". A system restart or a simple log-out and log-in will then display the corrected network name, "SmoothBGuac":
Addressing the Challenges of Network Adapter Naming
Several inquiries naturally surface when encountering this particular issue. Beyond the specialized nature of this registry modification – a problem unlikely to affect the majority of users – a primary question is why accomplishing this is so complex.
Furthermore, why is manual intervention even necessary? Why doesn't the identifier of a wired connection automatically update to reflect the SSID? Or, why isn't the network adapter's name, such as "Eth0," directly displayed within the networking settings?
A straightforward renaming process, without requiring system-level adjustments, seems logically preferable.
The router undoubtedly contributes to this behavior at some stage. Upon a new device connecting via a wired connection, the adapter adopts the label of the SSID.
It’s conceivable that utilizing more advanced networking equipment could resolve this issue, though this isn't guaranteed.
Have you encountered similar difficulties with network adapter naming? What solutions have you implemented?
Do you know of a more efficient workaround than directly editing the registry? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
