How to Change Your Network Profile

Windows operating systems have different settings for connecting to different networks. This may seem like a slight detail, but it can result in significant ramifications to your cybersecurity, as well as of course your organization. Let's discuss how to utilize your network profile to stay secure, based on your situation.

What is a Network Profile?
Each time a Windows 10 device connects to a new network, it asks the user if it should be able to be discovered by other devices on that network. Selecting “Yes” will set your network profile to Private, while selecting “No” will set it to Public.

The Private and Public settings refer to the type of network your device is connecting to, and what level of security your individual device has. If you are connected to your company’s network, with all its protections and other users you need to collaborate with, the “Private” network setting is the one you want to utilize. However, if you’re using your device in a public setting, on a network that is “Public”-ally accessible, you don’t want just anyone to be able to connect to you.

Switching the Network Profile
Windows 10 has a few different methods of switching the network profile that a device uses. One method is to use the built-in Settings application.

From the Start menu, access the Settings application. Go to Network and Internet, and then select the type of connection you have established from the left panel menu. If you’re physically connected to the network, select Ethernet, and if you’re using a wireless connection, select WiFi. Next, click on Network in the right panel. You can then switch between a Public network profile and a Private network profile.

Domain Networks
Enterprise workplaces often leverage a third network profile: a domain network. Unlike the Private or Public profiles, only a network administrator can set its use, and it can only be applied while the device is in the workplace.

Want to know more about your network, or need more help managing it? Reach out to Macro Systems at 703-359-9211.