Article · 2026-04-28 20:10:00
How to Prioritize Ethernet Over Wi-Fi in Windows 10/11
Set deterministic network path preference by adjusting interface metrics and adapter priority correctly.
Content
Windows route preference is heavily influenced by IPv4 interface metrics. When multiple adapters are up, the lower metric generally wins. If this is not managed, traffic can exit through the wrong path.
Typical problems
- Wi-Fi takes priority while Ethernet is connected
- VPN traffic leaks through non-preferred adapter
- Post-reconnect path order changes unexpectedly
Interface Metric Selector approach
Interface Metric Selector is a Windows 10/11 WPF tool designed specifically for viewing and changing IPv4 interface metrics with less friction than manual netsh workflows.
- Lists interfaces sorted by metric (preferred path is obvious)
- Shows adapter details: state, type, IPv4, MAC, and route hints
- Supports metric edits and apply action (admin context required)
Step-by-step
- Open the tool and review current metric order.
- Select your preferred adapter (for example Ethernet).
- Set a lower metric than competing interfaces.
- Apply changes and validate effective route behavior.
- Retest after reconnect/reboot for stability.
Why this is better than ad hoc commands
Support engineers get a repeatable, visual workflow that reduces command mistakes, speeds triage, and keeps routing decisions transparent.
Open the app page here: Interface Metric Selector.