Connect to Suggested open hotspot - Enable or Disable in Windows 10 and Windows 11 [Updated]

(Earlier version of Windows Edition image)

In today’s world, connecting to the internet is an essential part of our daily lives. Whether you are checking your emails, browsing social media, or working from home, internet connectivity is crucial. For many, especially those who are not as familiar with technology, understanding how to connect to Wi-Fi networks can be challenging.

Windows 10 and Windows 11 have a feature that helps users find and connect to suggested open hotspots. An open hotspot is a public Wi-Fi connection that does not require a password. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about using open hotspots, including how to enable or disable this feature in both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Table of Contents

1. Basic Understanding of Wi-Fi and Hotspots
2. What is a Suggested Open Hotspot?
3. Why Use Suggested Open Hotspots?
4. How to Enable Suggested Open Hotspots in Windows 10
5. How to Enable Suggested Open Hotspots in Windows 11
6. How to Disable Suggested Open Hotspots
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
8. Conclusion

1. Basic Understanding of Wi-Fi and Hotspots

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the internet wirelessly. You can think of it as a way of transmitting information without the use of cables. Wi-Fi is crucial for laptops, tablets, and smartphones as it enables you to access the internet anywhere within range of a Wi-Fi router.

What is a Hotspot?

A hotspot is a physical location that offers internet access to mobile devices via a wireless local area network (WLAN). Hotspots can be found in many public places such as restaurants, libraries, airports, and parks. Some hotspots require a password, while others are open to the public and allow anyone to connect freely.

2. What is a Suggested Open Hotspot?

A suggested open hotspot is a feature in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that automatically identifies and recommends available public Wi-Fi networks that don’t require a password. When enabled, your computer will show you a list of nearby open hotspots and allow you to connect easily.

3. Why Use Suggested Open Hotspots?

Using suggested open hotspots can be beneficial for various reasons:

• Convenience: Connecting to a nearby open hotspot can save you from using your mobile data plan, especially if you are traveling or in an area with limited cellular reception.
• Cost-efficiency: Public Wi-Fi can be a cost-effective way to access the internet without incurring extra charges on your mobile data.
• Flexibility: You can stay connected while on the go, allowing you to browse, check emails, or engage with social media when you need it.

However, it’s essential to exercise caution when using open hotspots to avoid potential security risks.

4. How to Enable Suggested Open Hotspots in Windows 10

Let’s go through the steps to enable suggested open hotspots in Windows 10.

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start button (Windows logo) in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Select Settings (the gear icon) from the menu.

Step 2: Go to Network & Internet

1. In the Settings window, click on Network & Internet.
2. From the left sidebar, choose Wi-Fi.

Step 3: Manage Known Networks

1. Scroll down and click on Manage known networks.
2. Here, you can see the list of networks your device has connected to previously.

Step 4: Enable Suggested Open Hotspots

1. Look for the option that says Connect to suggested open hotspots.
2. Turn it On. This will enable Windows to notify you about nearby open hotspots.

Step 5: Connect to the Open Hotspot

1. Once you have enabled suggested hotspots, return to the Wi-Fi settings.
2. Click on Show available networks.
3. You will see a list of available networks. If you see an open hotspot, simply click on it and then click Connect.

Additional Tips

• Make sure your computer is located in an area with good Wi-Fi reception to find more hotspots.
• Always check for the network name. Public hotspots may have different names based on the location (e.g., “Coffee Shop Wi-Fi”).

5. How to Enable Suggested Open Hotspots in Windows 11

Enabling suggested open hotspots in Windows 11 is slightly different but still straightforward.

Step 1: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start button (Windows logo) on your taskbar.
2. Select Settings (gear icon) from the list.

Step 2: Go to Network & Internet

1. Click on Network & Internet from the left pane.
2. Select Wi-Fi from the available options.

Step 3: Manage Known Networks

1. Click on Manage known networks.
2. You will see a list of previously connected networks.

Step 4: Enable Suggested Open Hotspots

1. Find the option labeled Connect to suggested open hotspots.
2. Use the toggle button to turn it On.

Step 5: Connecting

1. Go back to the Wi-Fi settings.
2. Click on Show available networks.
3. Select the desired open hotspot from the list, and click Connect.

6. How to Disable Suggested Open Hotspots

If you prefer not to connect to suggested open hotspots, you can easily disable this feature on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

To Disable in Windows 10:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. Go to Wi-Fi and then select Manage known networks.
4. Find the Connect to suggested open hotspots option and turn it Off.

To Disable in Windows 11:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & Internet.
3. Choose Wi-Fi.
4. Select Manage known networks.
5. Turn Off the Connect to suggested open hotspots option.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Can't See Any Suggested Hotspots

• Ensure your Wi-Fi is turned on.
• Check if you are in a location with available public hotspots.
• Restart your computer to refresh network settings.

Problem: Unable to Connect to a Hotspot

• Make sure that the hotspot is functioning properly.
• Disable any security software temporarily to see if it interferes with your connection.
• Forget the network if it appears in the known networks list and try reconnecting.

Problem: Connection is Unstable

• Move closer to the hotspot source if possible to improve signal strength.
• Check if other devices can connect to the same hotspot to rule out issues with the hotspot itself.
• If your connection remains unstable, consider switching to a different open hotspot or waiting for a better signal.

8. Conclusion

Connecting to suggested open hotspots in Windows 10 and Windows 11 can enhance your internet experience by providing convenient and cost-effective access to the web. With the steps outlined in this guide, even those unfamiliar with technology will find it easy to enable or disable this feature and connect to available networks.

Remember to utilize open hotspots cautiously, as all networks are not secure 😀😀

That's it..


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