Switch from Wi-Fi to a Wired Ethernet Connection on Mac or Windows 11

Questions

  • How do I switch from Wi-Fi to a wired Ethernet connection on my Mac?
  • How can I use an Ethernet cable instead of wireless on Windows 11?
  • Why isn't my computer using Ethernet when the cable is plugged in?
  • How do I turn off Wi-Fi so my computer uses a wired connection?
  • How do I confirm that my computer is connected over Ethernet?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students using:

  • Bowdoin-managed or personal devices
  • macOS Tahoe (26.x)
  • Microsoft Windows 11
  • On-campus network connections (residence halls, offices, classrooms)

A wired (Ethernet) connection is often faster and more stable than Wi-Fi. You may want to switch if your wireless connection is slow or unreliable.

Resolution

Before you begin

  1. Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into your computer (or into a USB-C Ethernet adapter if your device does not have an Ethernet port).
  2. Plug the other end into the wall network port.
  3. Wait a few seconds for the connection to activate.

Switch to Ethernet on macOS Tahoe

  1. Click the Apple menu and select System Settings.
  2. Click Network.
  3. Look for Ethernet in the list on the left.
  4. If Ethernet shows as connected (green dot), your Mac is already using the wired connection.
  5. To turn off Wi-Fi, select Wi-Fi and click Turn Off.
Tip: If you do not see Ethernet, unplug and reconnect the cable. If you are using an adapter, make sure it is firmly connected.

Switch to Ethernet on Windows 11

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Click Network & Internet.
  4. Select Ethernet. If it shows as connected, your computer is using the wired network.
  5. To turn off Wi-Fi, go back to Network & Internet, click Wi-Fi, and switch it Off.

How to confirm you are using Ethernet

  • On macOS: go to System Settings > Network and confirm Ethernet shows as connected with a green indicator.
  • On Windows 11: go to Settings > Network & Internet and confirm Ethernet shows as connected.

Once Ethernet is connected, your computer will typically prefer the wired connection automatically, even if Wi-Fi is still on.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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