When you connect a Windows 11 PC to a new Wi-Fi network—whether it’s at a coffee shop, an airport, or your own home—Windows asks if you want your PC to be “discoverable.” If you say yes (or if your network profile is set to “Private”), Windows enables Network Discovery. This allows your PC to see other computers on the local network, and crucially, allows other computers on that network to see your PC.
While necessary for sharing folders or connecting to a wireless printer at home, leaving Network Discovery enabled on a laptop that frequently travels to public networks is a massive security risk. It broadcasts your computer’s name to everyone else in the cafe. If you never share files with other computers and want to remain completely invisible on all networks, you should disable Network Discovery entirely.
How to Turn Off Network Discovery in Windows 11
You can disable the broadcasting feature from the Advanced Sharing settings.
- Click the Start button, type Control Panel, and press Enter to open the classic Control Panel.
- Click on Network and Internet, and then click on Network and Sharing Center.
- In the left-hand navigation pane, click on Change advanced sharing settings.
- You will see a list of network profiles (Private, Public, All Networks). Expand the profile you are currently using (or expand both Private and Public to be thorough).
- Under the “Network discovery” section, click the radio button next to Turn off network discovery.
- Click the Save changes button at the bottom of the window.
Your Windows 11 PC is now invisible to other devices on the local network. They will not see your computer name populate in their File Explorer, and you will not be able to see theirs. You can still access the internet normally, but your local footprint is completely secured.