Yes, you can configure Windows to prioritize Ethernet for file transfers while using Wi-Fi for other tasks.
Yes, you can configure Windows to prioritize Ethernet for file transfers while using Wi-Fi for other tasks.
I have two computers connected to a basic unmanaged 5-port switch for file sharing between them since Wi-Fi transfers are slow. The wiring in my home is faulty or damaged, so the Ethernet link from the router to the switch isn’t reliable—speed drops below 5MB/s but still gets internet access. File moves between the PCs remain fast, but outside Ethernet speeds are poor. Wi-Fi can reach up to 80MB/s, yet when both devices connect simultaneously, Windows prioritizes Ethernet for general tasks like browsing and downloading, even though it’s slower. It’s possible to configure Windows to use only Ethernet for file transfers between PCs, but I’m not sure how to set that up. Edited July 30, 2023 by Smrnd117
Adjust the connections between the switch and the router... when the wall cable is accessible (inside a pipe or channel), obtain a fresh cable, connect it to the existing one at one end, and remove the old cable simultaneously. The best approach would be to locate a download manager that supports specifying a particular Ethernet address instead of the default. Alternatively, you might create a few shortcuts to toggle network cards on or off before launching downloads. You can run a command prompt and type netsh interface show interface to view available network interfaces and their names, then disable an interface using netsh interface set interface "Interface Name" disable followed by enable to restore it. You can also generate a batch file with the relevant commands and assign shortcuts via system tray or drag-and-drop for easier access.
batch appears to be a convenient alternative instead of a full software solution. I recall from years past having a motherboard with built-in utilities that met my needs there. Repairing the wiring isn’t an option since I’m only renting the space for a short time. Someone else’s issue, perhaps. I suspect Windows file transfer relies on a particular port, which I could block via Wi-Fi (just joking) and then adjust interface priority. Finding reliable solutions online is tough because most guides are generic, though I noticed you can prioritize internet adapters. However, I doubt that would switch transfers from Ethernet to Wi-Fi—progress with a setback. Wi-Fi speeds for file transfers seem disappointing; it probably just works on the minimum level, assuming anyone using large files was already on Ethernet.