Windows Tablet · Network & Internet

Connect to Wi-Fi and manage network behavior

Windows 11 tablets rely on Wi-Fi for nearly everything since most don't have an Ethernet port. Managing known networks, metered connection settings, and Airplane mode correctly avoids both connectivity drops and unexpected data usage on cellular-equipped models.

What you should know

  • Open Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi to turn Wi-Fi on and connect to a network, or use the Quick Settings panel from the taskbar.
  • Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks to forget networks or change priority.
  • Select a connected network and toggle Metered connection if you're on limited mobile data — this pauses large background downloads including some Windows Updates.
  • For LTE/5G-equipped tablets, check Settings > Network & internet > Cellular for data usage limits and SIM/eSIM settings.
  • Use Airplane mode from Quick Settings before flights, then re-enable just Wi-Fi if the aircraft offers it.

Why it matters

A tablet with no Ethernet fallback is entirely dependent on a stable Wi-Fi connection for updates, OneDrive sync, and app downloads — a misconfigured metered connection or a stale saved network is one of the most common causes of a device that seems to silently stop syncing.

Best practices

  • Forget old or public networks you no longer use so the device doesn't try to auto-reconnect to a weak or unstable signal.
  • Mark hotel and mobile hotspot networks as metered to avoid burning through data on background updates.
  • Keep the device's Wi-Fi driver current through Windows Update if you see frequent random disconnects.

Common problems and fixes

Wi-Fi disconnects when the device sleeps or the type cover is detached
Check Settings > System > Power & battery for a power-saving Wi-Fi adapter setting, or update the Wi-Fi driver via Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
Can't find a network that used to appear
Forget the network under Manage known networks and reconnect fresh, since a corrupted saved profile can hide a network from the list.

Tips and tricks

  • Use the Network status page (Settings > Network & internet) to run the built-in Network troubleshooter directly instead of digging through separate menus.

Frequently asked questions

Does turning on Metered connection stop all downloads?

No — it pauses most automatic background downloads like app updates and some Windows Update content, but you can still manually check for and install updates.