How to Stop Wireless Zero Configuration

The Windows "Wireless Zero Configuration" service is compatible with many wireless adapters.

Microsoft included the "Wireless Zero Configuration" (WZC) utility in the Windows operating systems to offer its customers assistance and convenience when setting up a wireless connection on a network. Wireless networking, such as on a router, entails many protocols and settings, and novice PC users may have difficulty figuring it all out. The WZC icon is usually displayed prominently by the system clock and may pop up if a wireless adapter is detected on your PC. Stop the WZC service if it is bothersome.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Windows XP, Vista or 7 operating system
• Administrator account or privileges

Instructions

1. Click on "Start" or the Windows orb logo on the taskbar at the bottom of the desktop to show the Start menu. Select the "Control Panel" from the menu, then click on "Performance and Maintenance" to open a window. Choose "Administrative Tools" to open a dialog box. Alternatively, click on "Run" from the Start menu to open a dialog box. Type "services.msc" into the blank field, then click the "OK" button.

2. Double-click on "Services" in the left pane to show a listing of services in the right pane.

3. Click on the "Name" column heading to alphabetize the services.

4. Scroll down to find the "Wireless Zero Configuration" service.

5. Right-click the WZC service to show a pop-up menu, then choose "Stop" to prevent it from being used. Exit out of the "Services" dialog box.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the wireless adapter's manufacturer website for proprietary software that will operate in place of WZC.

• Microsoft has made the WZC service capable of supporting one of the strongest wireless networking encryption standards used, known as "Wi-Fi Protected Access" (WPA). Encryption helps prevent hackers from snooping on your Internet connection and stealing your personal information.

References

• Microsoft: Windows XP--Start, Stop, Pause, Resume or Restart a Service
• I Felix: Tech, Turning Off Wireless Zero Configuration
• Microsoft: Windows XP--Default Settings for Services
• Small Business Computing: Windows Wireless Zero Configuration: Five Steps to Sanity
• Microsoft: Windows XP--Services Permissions

Resources

• Microsoft: WPA Wireless Security for Home Networks
• Home Network Help: Wireless Zero Configuration in Windows XP
• Microsoft: Networking 101: Basics of Connecting and Setting Up a Wireless Home Network