How to Remove the "Tap to Join Wi-Fi" Message — 7 Proven Methods

Notification Tap to join the Wi-Fi network appears on the screen of a smartphone, laptop, or TV when the device detects an accessible but unsecured or partially open network. Most often, this isn't a bug, but a feature of the operating system designed to speed up your internet connection. However, constant pop-ups can be annoying, especially when it comes to networks you don't intend to connect to (for example, at a cafe or airport).

The problem is complicated by the fact that this notification behaves differently on different devices. Android it may appear in the notification shade, Windows 10/11 - in the pop-up window in the lower right corner, and on Smart TV (For example, LG WebOS or Samsung Tizen) - right on the main screen. In this article, we'll look at why the system so persistently prompts you to log in, and How do I disable this notification permanently? without harming the functionality of the device.

Why do I get the "Tap to join Wi-Fi" notification?

The main reason is - automatic connection settings to networksModern operating systems try to make internet access as easy as possible for users, so they scan the air for available access points. If the network:

• 🔓 Not password protected (open)
• 🔐 Uses outdated security protocols (For example, WEP instead of WPA2/WPA3)
• 📡 It has a weak signal, but was previously connected. (the system suggests to try again)
• 🏢 Belongs to a public institution (hotels, restaurants, shopping centers)

then the OS may issue a connection request. This is especially typical for Android 10+ And Windows 11, where developers are actively promoting the feature Wi-Fi Sense (automatic connection to verified networks).

The second common case is - router configuration errorIf the router settings are enabled, WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) or the function is activated Guest network Without a password, devices within range will receive an invitation to connect. This isn't a bug, but a feature of the protocol.

⚠️ Attention: If the notification appears at home but you haven't created a guest network, check your router for unauthorized connections. Someone may have changed your access point settings.

How to remove a notification on Android (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel, etc.)

On smartphones and tablets running Android message Tap to join Wi-Fi usually comes through notification curtainThere are several ways to disable it, depending on the OS version and the manufacturer's shell.

Method 1: Disable automatic connection to open networks

The most reliable method is to prevent the system from automatically searching and suggesting networks. To do this:

1. Open Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select Additional settings (or Wi-Fi settings).
3. Find the option Automatic connection to open networks (on Xiaomi — Connect to open networks automatically) And turn it off.

On some devices (eg. Samsung One UI) this item can be called Network Notifications or Smart Wi-FiIf the option is missing, proceed to the next method.

Method 2: Forget the network manually

If the notification appears for specific network (for example, in a cafe or office), it can be deleted from the device's memory:

1. Tap and hold the network name in the list of available connections.
2. Select Forget the network (or Delete).
3. Confirm the action.

After this, Android will stop prompting you to connect to this hotspot. The downside of this method is that the notification may reappear the next time you visit a location with this network.

Method 3: Disable Wi-Fi notifications

If the previous methods didn't help, you can completely block notifications from the Wi-Fi system:

1. Go to Settings → Applications.
2. Tap the three dots (⋮) and select Show system processes.
3. Find Wi-Fi (or Wi-Fi settings) in the list.
4. Select Notifications And turn off all switches.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (for example, MIUI from Xiaomi) Disabling Wi-Fi notifications can hide useful alerts, such as when you connect to a new network. In this case, it's better to use Method 1.

How to disable pop-up windows on Windows 10 and 11

On computers with Windows notification Tap to connect to Wi-Fi usually appears in notification center (in the lower right corner of the screen). Unlike Android, the problem here is more often related to settings. WLAN Automatic Configuration Services.

Method 1: Disable prompts in Wi-Fi settings

The easiest method:

1. Click Win + Ito open Parameters.
2. Go to Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
3. Scroll down and find the section Random connection settings.
4. Disable options:
   • 🔄 Connect to suggested open access points
   • 📶 Connect to networks that contacts connect to (if any)

On Windows 11 These settings can be found in the section Additional network settings.

Method 2: Change WLAN AutoConfig service settings

If notifications continue to appear, the issue may be with a background service. To configure it:

1. Click Win + R, enter services.msc and press Enter.
2. Find in the list WLAN Automatic Configuration Service.
3. Double click on it, select the startup type Manually and press Stop (if the service is active).
4. Apply the changes and restart your PC.

This method will not turn off Wi-Fi completely, but it will stop automatically searching for networks. To restore everything, simply restart the service and set the startup type Automatically.

Method 3: Editing the Registry (for advanced users)

If standard methods don't work, you can manually disable notifications through the registry. Be careful - Incorrect changes may disrupt the system.

1. Click Win + R, enter regedit and confirm.
2. Follow the path:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WcmSvc\wifinetworkmanager\config

3. Find the parameter AutoConnectAllowedOEM and change its value from 1 on 0.
4. Save the changes and restart your PC.

⚠️ Attention: Before editing the registry Be sure to create a system restore pointIn case of an error, this will help restore Windows functionality.

Features for Smart TVs (LG, Samsung, Sony, Xiaomi)

On TVs with WebOS (LG), Tizen (Samsung) or Android TV notification Tap to join Wi-Fi may appear directly on the home screen. This is due to the aggressive policies of manufacturers who want users to always be online (for example, to collect statistics or display ads).

For LG WebOS

To disable pop-ups on LG Smart TV:

1. Open Settings → Network → Wi-Fi connection.
2. Select Additional settings (or Expert mode).
3. Find the option Automatic connection to open networks And turn it off.
4. If there is no option, reset the network settings to factory settings (Network reset).

For Samsung Tizen

On TVs Samsung the algorithm is different:

1. Press and hold the button Home on the remote, go to Settings → General → Network.
2. Select Open networks and disable the option Show notifications.
3. If notifications continue to appear, disable the feature. Easy Setup in the section Support.

On some models Samsung may be required full reset of network settings (Settings → Support → Self-diagnosis → Network reset).

For Android TV (Sony, Xiaomi, Philips)

TVs on Android TV inherit settings from the mobile version of the OS, so the methods are similar to smartphones:

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Additional settings.
2. Turn it off Auto-connection to open networks.
3. If the option is missing, delete all saved open networks manually.

⚠️ Attention: On some Android TV (For example, Xiaomi Mi TV) after disabling auto-connection, access to proprietary services may be lost (for example, Mi Home). In this case, you'll have to choose between convenience and the lack of notifications.

If the notification appears on MacOS

On computers Apple The problem is less common, but also possible. It is usually related to the function Automatic connection to networksTo disable it:

1. Open System Preferences → Network.
2. Select Wi-Fi → Additional.
3. In the section Automatic connection to networks Uncheck unnecessary networks.
4. Click OK and restart your Mac.

If the notification appears for specific network, remove it from the list of known ones:

1. In the same window Additionally find the section Well-known networks.
2. Select the network you don't need and click – (minus) to delete.

How to configure your router to prevent notifications from appearing

If the problem is not in the device, but in incorrect router settings, you can change the access point settings. This is relevant if the notification appears Houses or in the office.

Step 1: Disable WPS

Protocol WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) often causes unnecessary notifications. To disable it:

1. Enter the router's IP address into your browser (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
2. Log in (default logins: admin/admin or see the router sticker).
3. Go to the section Wi-Fi → Security Settings (or WPS).
4. Find the option Enable WPS And turn it off.

Step 2: Remove the guest network (if you don't need it)

Many routers (for example, TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic) by default create guest network without passwordTo disable it:

1. In the router control panel, find the section Guest network (or Additional Wi-Fi settings).
2. Uncheck the box Enable guest network.
3. Save the settings and reboot the router.

Step 3: Change the Wi-Fi mode

If your router is in the mode 802.11b/g/n/ax, try disabling outdated standards (b/g), which may cause conflicts:

1. Go to Wi-Fi Settings → Basic Settings.
2. Find the parameter Opening hours (or Wireless Mode).
3. Select 802.11n/ac (or 802.11ax, if supported).

Problem	Cause	Solution
A notification appears at home	WPS or guest network is enabled	Disable in router settings
Constant pop-ups on Android	Auto-connection to open networks is enabled	Disable in Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced
Notifications on Windows after an update	The WLAN AutoConfig service is running in the background.	Disable the service or change the registry settings
Pop-up windows on Smart TV	The manufacturer forces automatic connection	Reset network settings or disable notifications manually

⚠️ Attention: Router settings may vary depending on the model and firmware. If you're unsure about what you're doing, Do not change security-related settings (such as encryption type)to avoid losing access to the network.

What to do if nothing helps

If you have tried all the methods, but the notification Tap to join Wi-Fi If the problem continues to appear, it's possible that it's deeper. Let's look at some rare but possible scenarios.

Scenario 1: Virus or malware

Some viruses tamper with network settings, forcing the device to constantly search for open networks. To check the system:

• 🛡️ On Android: Install an antivirus (for example, Malwarebytes or Kaspersky) and scan the device.
• 🖥️ On Windows: Run the scan via Windows Defender or Dr.Web CureIt.
• 📺 On Smart TV: Reset your TV to factory settings (Settings → Support → Reset).

Scenario 2: Firmware Error

On some devices (especially on Android TV and budget smartphones) the notification may be hardwired into the firmwareIn this case, the following will help:

• 🔄 Update software to the latest version.
• 📱 Installing custom firmware (for example, LineageOS for Android).
• 🖥️ Roll back Windows to the previous version (if the problem appeared after an update).

Scenario 3: Hardware failure

In rare cases the cause may be damaged Wi-Fi module, which scans networks incorrectly. Signs:

• 📶 The device "sees" networks that actually don't exist.
• 🔌 Constant connection breaks.
• 🔥 Overheating of the case in the antenna area.

The solution is to replace the module (at a service center) or use an external one. USB Wi-Fi adapter.

What should I do if a notification appears on my work device?

If the problem occurs on a corporate laptop or phone, the settings are most likely managed by the IT department through MDM (Mobile Device Management). In this case, disabling notifications yourself may violate the company's security policy. Please contact support and request that your device be added to the exceptions list.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the notification appear even when Wi-Fi is turned off?

On some devices (especially Android) The Wi-Fi module can remain active in the background to scan for networks (function Wi-Fi Scanning). To disable it:

1. Go to Settings → Location → Scan.
2. Turn it off Wi-Fi Scanning And Bluetooth scanning.

On Windows a similar function is performed by the service Network Geolocation Service - it can be turned off in services.msc.

Is it possible to turn off notifications for just a specific network?

Yes, this is possible on most devices:

• 📱 Android: Tap and hold the network in the Wi-Fi list and select Forget.
• 🖥️ Windows: Remove the network from the list of known networks Settings → Network → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks.
• 📺 Smart TV: Reset network settings for a specific access point.

After this, the device will stop offering to connect to it, but other networks will still be displayed.

Is it safe to connect to the networks the system offers?

No, it is risky. Open networks (without password) or networks with outdated protocols (WEP, WPA) vulnerable to:

• 🕵️ Traffic interception (including logins and passwords).
• 💻 Man-in-the-middle attacks (MITM).
• 📤 Malware injections via DNS.

If you still need to connect, use VPN (For example, ProtonVPN or Windscribe) and disable file sharing in network settings.

Why did the notification return after resetting the settings?

Resetting returns all settings to factory defaults, including auto-connection functionsAfter reset:

1. Immediately disable automatic connection to open networks (see instructions above).
2. Update your device firmware to the latest version.
3. If the problem is with the router, configure it again by disabling it. WPS and a guest network.

Is there a universal way to turn off notifications on all devices?

Unfortunately, no. Each OS and manufacturer implements this feature differently. General recommendations:

• 🔧 Disable auto-connection in Wi-Fi settings.
• 🚫 Remove unnecessary networks from your device's memory.
• 🔒 Configure your router so that it doesn't distribute open networks.

On some devices (eg. Android TV) may be required root access or reflashingto remove notifications completely.