When you boot up Windows 11 and arrive at the Lock Screen, you will notice a few system icons in the bottom-right corner. Alongside the battery and accessibility icons, there is a prominent Network icon. Clicking this icon opens a flyout menu that allows anyone to view available Wi-Fi networks, disconnect your PC from the internet, or toggle Airplane mode.
In a public environment (like a library, school, or open office), leaving network controls accessible on a locked computer is a minor security vulnerability. A malicious prankster could walk past your locked PC and disconnect you from the Wi-Fi in the middle of a large download, or put the machine into Airplane mode, severing your remote desktop connection. You can remove this icon to secure your network state.
How to Remove the Network Icon from the Lock Screen
You must use the Local Group Policy Editor to disable the network selection flyout.
- Click the Start button, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to launch the Local Group Policy Editor. (Note: Group Policy Editor is only available in Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions. It is not available in Windows 11 Home).
- In the left-hand navigation pane, follow this exact folder path by expanding the folders: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon.
- Once you have clicked on the “Logon” folder, look at the main window on the right.
- Locate the policy named Do not display network selection UI.
- Double-click this policy to open its settings window.
- In the top-left corner of the new window, click the radio button to change the setting from “Not Configured” to Enabled. (You must “Enable” the restriction).
- Click Apply, and then click OK.
You can test the change immediately without restarting your computer. Press Windows Key + L on your keyboard to instantly lock your PC. Look at the bottom-right corner of the screen; the Network icon will be completely gone, ensuring nobody can tamper with your internet connection while you are away from your desk.