Applies to Windows 7

Disconnect your computer from a network or network drive

If you don't want your computer to be on a network, you can disconnect it without having to unplug any cables. You can also disconnect your computer from shared network drives that you no longer use.

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To disconnect from a network

  1. Open Network Connections by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, and then clicking Control Panel. In the search box, type adapter, and then, under Network and Sharing Center, click View network connections.

  2. Right-click the network that you want to disconnect from, and then do one of the following:

    • For a wireless, dial-up, virtual private network (VPN), or incoming connection, click Disconnect.

    • For a local area network (LAN) connection, click Disable. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

      If you disable a LAN connection, the network adapter is disabled until you enable it again.

To disconnect from a network drive

  1. Open Computer by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, and then clicking Computer.

  2. Click the Tools menu, and then click Disconnect Network Drive.

    If you don't see the Tools menu, press Alt.

  3. Click the drive that you want to disconnect from, and then click OK.