How To Turn Off Wifi Direct? Step-by-Step Guide With Picture

Direct Wi-Fi is a method of connecting two or more devices without the use of an internet access point. You must switch it off after use for security reasons. In Windows 10/11, you can disable wifi direct by opening Device Manager, right-clicking on “Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter,” and selecting “Disable device.” In Android, go to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi > three-dot menu > Wi-Fi Direct to disable it. The method of printers differs depending on the brand and model.

What Is Wifi Direct?

With direct Wi-Fi, no gateway or hub, or internet is required to link together multiple wireless devices. Peer-to-peer networking allows devices to exchange data directly. Wi-Fi Direct will automatically connect to a better network if standard Wi-Fi is also in range. Wi-Fi Direct has a variety of applications and advantages:

Direct Wi-Fi enables decentralized network-free communication between gadgets. Connectivity and information sharing across devices are fast and easy. Wi-Fi Direct eliminates the need for intricate network setup procedures. Connecting devices makes sharing and collaborating on projects simple.

With direct Wi-Fi, you may send data quickly from one device to another. Without an internet connection, you may still share media like photographs, movies, and documents. Over Wi-Fi Direct, gadgets can share multimedia files in real-time. Streaming media may be easily transferred between mobile devices and smart TVs.

You can print and scan wirelessly without a router with Wi-Fi Direct. Wirelessly send print jobs from your device to a compatible printer or scanner. You can use Wi-Fi Direct to broadcast media from numerous devices and play multiplayer games. You can also use Wi-Fi Direct to share an internet connection. When one device is linked to the internet, it might serve as an access point for others.

Why Should You Turn Off Wi-Fi Direct?

For security reasons, you should turn off Wi-Fi Direct. You can reduce the risks associated with Wi-Fi Direct by disabling it when not in use.  Let’s quickly explore why you might consider disabling it.

• Hackers can exploit Wi-Fi Direct, making devices vulnerable. When not in use, disable Wi-Fi Direct.
• As Wi-Fi Direct searches for nearby devices, it consumes additional battery power. Disable Wi-Fi Direct to save battery life.
• Due to Wi-Fi Direct’s similar frequency to regular Wi-Fi, it can interfere with the network and slow it down. Reduce network congestion by disabling Wi-Fi Direct.
• It discovers and connects devices automatically. By disabling Wi-Fi Direct, you have more control over connected devices.
• Wi-Fi Direct allows nearby devices to connect to your device in crowded or public places. Maintain full control over device connections by disabling Wi-Fi Direct.

How To Turn Off Wifi Direct In Windows 10/11

There are multiple ways to turn off direct wifi in Windows. Choose which one seems easy for you. 

Device Manager

Step 1. Click the Windows key + X to open the Power User menu.

Step 2. Choose Device Manager from the menu.

Step 3. Expand the Network adapters category.

Step 4. Find the Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter.

Step 5. To disable the adapter, right-click on it and select Disable device.

Step 6. If you want to confirm, click Yes.

Command Prompt

Step 1. Press the Windows key + X to open the Windows Power User Menu.

Step 2. Select Command prompt (admin).

Step 3. Copy this command netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=disallow

Step 4. Paste that there and hit enter. (press ctrl+V to paste)

Step 5. Now close the Command prompt (admin)

How To Turn Off Wifi Direct In Android (Samsung And Others)

In Android phones, wifi direct remains off until you connect it to a device. If no device is connected to the Wi-Fi Direct, it is already off.  When you click on wifi direct from settings, it turns on and becomes visible to all other devices. If you don’t have any devices connected, close the tab. This will turn off the direct wifi. If you already have a device connected, follow these steps.

Step 1. Go to the Settings app and open it.

Step 2. Click on Connections.

Step 3. Then tap on Wi-Fi.

Step 4. In the top right corner, tap the three dots.

Step 5. Select Wi-Fi Direct from the menu.

Step 6. Tap on any devices that are connected to your phone to disconnect them.

Step 7. To turn off WiFi Direct, tap the toggle.

How To Turn Off Wifi Direct In Printer

Printers come with different types of buttons with different names and settings. Therefore, the system for turning off WiFi direct varies from model to model and brand to brand. Below are lists of brands and their systems for turning off WiFi Direct.

Conclusion

To turn off wifi direct on the Computer Press windows+x> Device Manager>Network Adapters>Microsoft Wi-Fi Direct Virtual Adapter>Disable>Yes. Alternatively, you can use Command Prompt by running the command “netsh wlan set hostednetwork mode=disallow.” If you like to turn off direct wifi on an Android phone follow this Settings>Connections>Wi-Fi>Three dots>Wi-Fi Direct>Disconnect. 

Related Articles: 

1. How To Turn Off Someone’s WiFi With IP
2. How To Boost My TV WiFi Signal
3. What Is A Good WiFi Signal 
4. How Far Do WiFi Extenders Reach?
5. How To Turn Off Wifi Direct?