How to Use Wi-Fi and Ethernet at the Same Time in Windows

Most people think it’s either Wi-Fi or Ethernet—but you can use both at once on Windows. Sometimes it makes sense: maybe you want faster downloads, a backup connection, or to segment traffic between work and personal use. Here’s how to do it, without any technical jargon or confusion.

Why Use Both?

• Speed: Combine bandwidth for faster downloads (with some apps or advanced setups).
• Redundancy: If one connection drops, the other keeps you online.
• Network Separation: Access different resources on different networks at the same time.

The Simple Way: Just Plug In

First, the basics: If you connect your PC to Wi-Fi and then plug in an Ethernet cable, Windows connects to both networks. But by default, Windows prefers Ethernet for most traffic and only uses Wi-Fi if Ethernet disconnects.

If you want Windows to actively use both at the same time, you’ll need to tweak a few settings.

Step-by-Step: Force Windows to Use Wi-Fi and Ethernet Together

1. Connect to Both Networks

• Connect your Ethernet cable.
• Connect to your Wi-Fi as usual.

2. Open Network Connections

• Press Windows Key + R, type ncpa.cpl, and hit Enter.

3. Adjust Adapter Priorities

By default, Windows prioritizes one adapter over the other. Here’s how to change that:

• In the Network Connections window, press Alt > Advanced > Advanced Settings.
• Under Connections, reorder the adapters using the arrows. Put Wi-Fi above Ethernet, or vice versa, depending on your needs.

Note: On Windows 10/11, the “Advanced Settings” menu may be hidden. If so, skip to the next section.

4. Change Metric Values (Manual Control)

This is the most reliable way to use both connections:

• Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter > Properties > scroll down and double-click Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
• Click Advanced….
• Uncheck Automatic metric.
• Enter a number in the Interface metric box (lower numbers have higher priority).
  Example:
  • Set Ethernet to 10
  • Set Wi-Fi to 20
  • Or the other way around, depending on which you want to prioritize
• Repeat for the other adapter (Ethernet or Wi-Fi).

5. Optional: Route Specific Traffic

If you want certain apps to use only Wi-Fi and others only Ethernet, you’ll need third-party tools like ForceBindIP or advanced routing commands. For most users, steps above are enough.

Will My Speed Double?

Not always. Windows doesn’t “combine” speeds unless you use special software (like link aggregation or load balancing routers), which most home setups don’t support. But you can use both networks for different types of traffic, giving you more flexibility and redundancy.

Troubleshooting

• Only one network works?
  Double-check your adapter metrics. If both are set to “automatic,” Windows will pick only one.
• Network drops?
  Some networks block dual connections for security. Check with your IT if you’re at work.

Conclusion

You don’t have to choose between Wi-Fi and Ethernet. With a few clicks, you can have both running at once. Whether you want faster, more reliable internet or just flexibility, this simple tweak can help you get the most out of your Windows PC.

Have any questions or run into trouble? Drop a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!