We explain what it is, what it is for and how to activate airplane mode in Windows 11. In addition, we give you some recommendations to get more out of it.
Did you know Windows 11 Does it have an identical function to your mobile phone? We refer to airplane mode, a software feature that you will find very useful in some situations, such as when you are traveling, when you want to save battery life or when you do not want to be disturbed by notifications. In this article we are going to explain what is airplane mode windows 11, what it is for and how to activate or deactivate it easily and quickly. Do not miss it!
What is airplane mode in Windows 11?
Airplane mode is a function that allows you to disconnect your computer from all wireless connectionssuch as WiFi or Bluetooth. Despite the fact that by activating this mode the computer will continue to function normally, you won’t be able to access the internet or other nearby devices.
This switch that stops all wireless connections has an origin closely related to aeronautics, hence its name airplane mode. More specifically, it was created to avoid interference with aircraft systems during flights. Before this feature existed, it was necessary to completely turn off electronic devices to avoid noise or distortion in critical aircraft communications, for example, between the crew and air traffic controllers.
The advent of this feature allowed passengers use your devices without having to turn them off completely. This has become especially important in recent times, as the mobile has become a Swiss army knife that performs all kinds of tasks.
But, since Windows 11 computers have various wireless connections, some even mobile data, Microsoft has decided to include the airplane mode in the quick settings of your operating system.
What does airplane mode do in Windows 11?
The airplane mode of mobiles works the same as that of your computer and has noticeable effects on your computer. Once you have enabled it, you will only be able to access local resourcessuch as files synced from the cloud to internal storage or installed apps. Anything you want to open from the browser will not work.
In fact, when activating airplane mode all this happens:
- Wi-Fi disconnects. As a consequence, Internet access is lost.
- Bluetooth is disconnectedturning off any connection with other wireless devices.
- GPS is disconnected and therefore apps no longer have access to geographic location.
- Mobile telephony and data are disconnected. This prevents you from making calls or browsing the Internet with your carrier’s plan.
- HE It reduces energy consumption and battery life is increased.
How do you activate airplane mode in Windows 11?
There are several ways to activate airplane mode in Windows 11. Next, we will tell you about them all.
With quick settings
Going to the quick settings of Windows 11 is the easiest way to activate airplane mode on your computer. All you have to do is press the button that contains the icons for the network, battery, and sound.
When the quick settings panel has opened, press the button Airplane mode.
from settings
If you go to the Windows configuration you will find a section dedicated to airplane mode. Specifically, you should go to Network and Internet > Airplane mode.
Once there, click on the slider that appears in the first section, next to Airplane mode. Immediately, it will be enabled.
In this section of the settings there is an interesting message that we must highlight. If you look at the top, it indicates that Windows 11 will remember the connections that you activate after enabling airplane mode. This allows you to maintain, for example, the Bluetooth or WiFi connection, which is allowed on airplanes. In fact, many airlines offer free Internet to their customers.
Manually turning off connections
Finally, the last option you have to turn on airplane mode (without turning it on) is to turn off the connections manually. This means that you must make sure that WiFi, location, Bluetooth or mobile data is turned off.
It is evident that it is a possibility and that is why we mention it here. However, if what you want is to turn off all the wireless connectivity of your PC, especially if you are going to travel with an airline, the ideal thing is to click on the button Airplane mode. This way you will be sure that you have turned off all the necessary connections.
Airplane mode in Windows 11: when can you need it?
It is clear that, if you are going to travel by air, airplane mode is essential, both on your mobile and on your computer. Now that you know how to enable it in Windows 11, here are some additional tips for put this function to practical usebeyond air travel.
- Charge your equipment faster. By having all connections disabled, the battery consumes less and charges faster.
- play ad-free. By not having an internet connection, free games will not be able to show you ads as easily.
- Entering a state of partial connectivity. You can turn on airplane mode to turn off all connections and then turn on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This makes it possible to continue using some functions, such as connecting a wireless headset.
- Solve problems. If you think there’s a WiFi signal or mobile data failure, enabling airplane mode and then turning it off causes your device to search for the best available network again.
- Avoid interference with other devices. And it doesn’t just apply to airplanes. You may be asked to enable it in some spaces, such as hospitals, where there is sensitive medical equipment.
- save data. Even if you think that your device is not consuming data, some applications in the background connect to the network to update content and obtain data. Airplane mode stops all transfers and ensures zero consumption of your rate data.