If you often switch between wired and wireless internet, you know that it does not always go smoothly. In this tip, we’ll show you how to set which network device is most important.
Adjusting priority network devices: this is how you do this
Your Mac or MacBook does not always automatically choose the fastest network that is connected. In some cases, your Mac is still using your Wi-Fi, despite connecting a much faster wired connection. This is because your WiFi adapter is set as the main network device by default, so your cable comes second.
To make sure your Mac uses the cable when you plug it in, make it the priority over your Wi-Fi. To do this, follow the step-by-step plan below.
Adjust the order of network services
- Click on the Apple menu and go to ‘System Preferences’;
- Select ‘Network’, after which the list of devices will appear;
- Click on the gear wheel and choose ‘Set order facilities’;
- In the screen that appears, put your wired adapter at the top of the list. It’s a good idea to put your WiFi adapter in second place;
- Select ‘Apply’ in the Network overview and close.
If this setting is correct, your Mac will automatically connect to the internet via the adapter you put on top. If this does not work, it will automatically pick the next one in the list (for example your WiFi adapter). So you are always connected via WiFi, but macOS opts for the cable as soon as you connect it.
Also read: this is how you get an icon for wired internet on your Mac