Windows · Network & Internet
Disable all wireless radios instantly
Airplane mode instantly turns off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, and GPS radios all at once, which is required during flights and useful anytime you want to quickly disable wireless connectivity.
How to open Airplane Mode
- Open Settings → Network & internet → Airplane mode
- Toggle airplane mode on or off
- Optionally re-enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth individually
- Or use the Quick Settings icon in the taskbar for one-click access
What you should know
- Toggle all wireless radios off with a single switch
- Selectively re-enable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth while airplane mode is on
- Access airplane mode quickly from the Quick Settings flyout
- View which radios are currently active or disabled
Why it matters
Airline regulations often require passengers to disable wireless transmissions during portions of a flight, making airplane mode a mandatory feature for travelers rather than a convenience. Beyond air travel, it's also a fast way to conserve battery life on a laptop when wireless connectivity isn't needed, since radios consume power even when idle. It's useful in sensitive environments like hospitals or secure facilities where wireless transmissions may need to be minimized. The ability to selectively re-enable Wi-Fi while keeping cellular off also supports common real-world scenarios like in-flight Wi-Fi.
Best practices
- Enable airplane mode before boarding a flight, then turn Wi-Fi back on if in-flight Wi-Fi is available
- Use airplane mode to extend battery life during long work sessions without network needs
- Add the Quick Settings shortcut for one-tap access instead of navigating the full Settings app
- Confirm Bluetooth peripherals disconnect as expected when airplane mode is enabled
Common problems and fixes
- Wi-Fi won't turn back on after enabling airplane mode
- Use the Quick Settings flyout to manually re-enable Wi-Fi while keeping other radios off.
- Airplane mode turns on unexpectedly
- Check for a physical airplane mode key or function key combination on your keyboard that may have been pressed accidentally.
- Bluetooth accessories disconnect when Wi-Fi is re-enabled
- Bluetooth remains off separately from Wi-Fi; toggle it back on individually if needed.
Tips and tricks
- Pin the airplane mode toggle to Quick Settings for one-click access from the taskbar
- Check a laptop's physical function key row, since many have a dedicated airplane mode key
Frequently asked questions
Does airplane mode turn off my keyboard and mouse if they're Bluetooth?
Yes, Bluetooth accessories disconnect unless you re-enable Bluetooth after airplane mode is on.
Can I still use Wi-Fi in airplane mode?
Yes, you can manually turn Wi-Fi back on while the rest of the radios stay disabled.
Does this affect wired ethernet connections?
No, airplane mode only controls wireless radios, not wired network connections.
Related settings
- WiFi ConnectionWiFi Connection settings allow you to view, connect to, and manage wireless networks. You can configure automatic connections, set network priorities, and troubleshoot connectivity issues from this panel.
- Bluetooth SettingsBluetooth settings allow you to connect wireless devices such as headphones, keyboards, mice, and smartphones to your PC. You can pair, remove, and manage connected devices easily.
- Mobile HotspotMobile Hotspot lets you share your PC's internet connection (WiFi, Ethernet, or cellular) with other nearby devices over WiFi, Bluetooth, or a USB cable. It's useful for sharing a wired connection with a phone, or a cellular data plan with a laptop that lacks its own SIM.
More Network & Internet guides for Windows
- VPNVPN settings let you add, connect, and manage Virtual Private Network profiles for securely routing your traffic through a work, school, or personal VPN server. This is where you configure server details, sign-in info, and whether the VPN connects automatically.
- Remote DesktopRemote Desktop lets you connect to this PC from another Windows device, or from Mac, iOS, and Android using the Remote Desktop app, over your local network or the internet. Once enabled, you can control this PC's full desktop remotely, which is useful for accessing a work computer from home or troubleshooting a family member's PC.
- Nearby SharingNearby Sharing lets you send files, photos, and links wirelessly to another nearby Windows PC using Bluetooth and WiFi together, without needing a shared network drive, email, or a USB stick. Both the sending and receiving PC need Nearby Sharing turned on and Bluetooth enabled for it to work.
- Proxy SettingsProxy settings let you route your PC's internet traffic through a proxy server, either automatically detected or manually configured, which is often required on corporate or school networks.
- EthernetEthernet settings manage your PC's wired network adapter, including IP configuration, connection metering, and network profile type for a plugged-in cable connection.
- Data UsageData usage shows how much network data your PC has consumed over Wi-Fi and ethernet in the past 30 days, broken down by app, helping you identify what's using bandwidth.