Applies to Windows 8, Windows RT

What's new in networking?

Networking in Windows 8 and Windows RT is built on the foundation of what you already know, but some things are now in new places or have other changes. Many of these changes enhance and simplify the process of getting connected and staying connected.

Here's what's changed:

  • Network connections — We've simplified the process of connecting to a wireless network. To get started, tap or click the Settings charm, and then tap or click the network icon The wireless network icon.

  • Network location — The setting formerly known as network location (Private/Public or Home/Work/Domain) is now called network sharing. You turn this setting on or off as part of the process of connecting to a network. For more info, see Turn sharing on or off.

  • Connected standby — If your hardware supports it, Windows can keep your laptop connected to the Internet with minimal power usage. Apps and their content stay up to date even while you’re not using the PC and are immediately ready for you when you return. For more info, see Power plans: Frequently asked questions.

  • Wireless profiles — Windows 8 and Windows RT are smarter about ordering wireless networks, and learns your preferred order based on your behavior. We have also added support for ordering between mobile broadband and Wi‑Fi network profiles, removing the need for a page dedicated to ordering. If needed, you can still perform the same tasks by following the info here: Manage wireless network profiles.

  • Mobile broadband — You can buy mobile broadband service directly from a mobile broadband operator without going to a store or calling the operator.

  • Metered Internet connections — We’ve added metered Internet connection controls in several places, to help you manage the amount of data you use on a metered mobile broadband or Wi‑Fi network. For more info, see Metered Internet connections: Frequently asked questions.

  • Ad hoc networks — You can’t create an ad hoc network in Windows 8 and Windows RT, but you can connect to an ad hoc network if one is in range (unless your PC is running Windows RT). There are third-party tools for creating ad hoc networks, if you need to do this.