Change Network Type from Private to Public in Windows 8.1

Ever found yourself with a Windows system that just won't let you browse the local network? If you're on a public connection, like at an airport or hotel WiFi, you'd expect this behavior, a good thing. If you're on a wired or WiFi connection at home, Windows may sometimes mysteriously wind up with a Public network type. You won't be able to print or scan from this PC, or Remote Desktop to it. Read more about the Microsoft Networking security implications of changing the location at Choosing a network location.

Not like Windows 7, Changing Network Location in Windows 8.1 really makes me confused. To set Network Location in Windows 7, just go to Network and Sharing Center then click on the network’s type and start setting it is Home, Work or Public network.

You cannot find the same option in Control Panel in Windows 8.1. So this tutorial is to help you easily change your Network Location setting in Windows 8.1.

Private Network in "Network and Sharing Center" in Windows 8.1

Step 1: Connect to the network that you want to change it to Public

Step 2: Press Windows logo key + I to open the Settings charm > Click on Change PC settings

Step 3: In the PC settings panel click on Network

Step 4: On the right side of Connections > click on the network

Step 5: Now you will see the setting for the Find devices and content option is ON

Click on the switch to turn it to OFF

Now go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center

Your network location has been changed to Public.

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