How to Use a Separate Internet Connection for a Browser

Wired modems need an Ethernet cable to function.

If your Internet service provider limits your bandwidth usage, if you tend to experience connectivity problems with certain browsers or if you prefer different secure networks for certain browsers, you can solve these issues by using a separate Internet connection for your browser. If your computer uses a wireless network or if you have multiple wired connections plugged into the back of your PC, you can connect to separate networks with just a few mouse clicks. For a computer with a single wired modem, using a separate Internet connection is as simple as disconnecting one cable and attaching another one to your computer.

Instructions

Wireless Modem or Multiple Wired Modems

1. Click on the network icon in the right-hand corner of the screen to view connection options. If you have wired modems, the symbol looks like a small computer monitor. For wireless networks, the icon is a series of bars that represent signal strength.

2. Click on the network that you want to use with your browser. Your current network connection is at the top of the list, and all other available options appear below.

3. Enter your password when prompted if you are accessing a secure network.

4. Open your browser and begin surfing the Internet. You are now connected to a separate network.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 if to reconnect to the old network after you finish browsing.

One Wired Modem

1. Unplug the Ethernet cable from the back of your computer. An Ethernet cable looks like a large phone cable, and it runs from your computer's modem to your wired router.

2. Plug in an Ethernet cable running from your other network device into the open modem port. Once you replace the network cable with a cable from a different router, your computer will automatically connect to the new network.

3. Open your browser to surf the Internet on your new connection.

4. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 when you are finished browsing.

Tips & Warnings

• If you only have one wired modem, special switch routers allow you to change networks without unplugging the Ethernet cable. However, these routers often cost more than installing a second wired modem, so they are not practical for most users.

References

• Microsoft: View and Connect to Available Wireless Networks