This article explains how to turn off Wi-Fi and why you might want to do it. Instructions apply to Windows and Mac computers, Android and iOS smartphones, and routers.

In Windows 10 and earlier, turn off Wi-Fi through the Control Panel. Another option is to turn off Wi-Fi through the Windows taskbar. Select the Wi-Fi icon and then select Wi-Fi to turn it off.

Laptops sometimes have a physical Wi-Fi switch on the front or side that, when flipped to the off position, physically turns off the Wi-Fi antenna, which is the same as turning off Wi-Fi through the Control Panel. Flip the switch to the on position to turn Wi-Fi back on.

To turn off Wi-Fi on macOS, go to the menu bar, click the wireless icon, and choose Turn Wi-Fi Off.