# What is the difference between a Public and a Private network on Windows?

Source: https://support.aerohubradar.com/article/public-and-private-networks-on-windows
Product: AeroHub Connector
Section: Network
Last updated: 2026-10-31

Windows gives every network you connect to a type: Public or Private. The type decides what other devices on that network can see and send to your computer. It matters for the Feeder, because Infinite Flight finds AeroHub Connector over your network.

## Public network

- Your computer stays hidden from other devices on the network.
- Windows blocks most messages that other devices send to your computer.
- Use it on networks you do not trust: cafés, airports, hotels, school or work.

## Private network

- Other devices on the network can find your computer.
- Apps you allow can talk to devices on the same network, like your phone or tablet.
- Use it only on a network you trust, like your own home Wi-Fi.

Windows marks Public as recommended because it is the safest choice when you are not sure. On your own home network, Private is fine.

## Why it matters for the Feeder

In Automatic mode, Infinite Flight sends a small message over your Wi-Fi to say where it is, and AeroHub Connector listens for it. On a Public network, Windows blocks that message, so the Feeder keeps saying "Searching".

You have two options:

- Set your home network to Private (steps below), and allow AeroHub Connector on Private networks only.
- Keep your network as Public and use Manual (IP) mode in the Feeder. AeroHub Connector then connects to your device directly, so nothing has to reach your computer first. This works on any network.

## How to set your network to Private

Do this only on a network you trust, like your own home Wi-Fi.

1. Open Settings on Windows.
2. Go to Network & internet.
3. Choose Wi-Fi (or Ethernet if your computer uses a cable) and then your network.
4. Under Network profile type, choose Private.

![Network profile type set to Private in Windows Settings](https://support.aerohubradar.com/guides/windows-network/2-network-profile-private.webp)

## Allow AeroHub Connector only on Private networks

The first time the Feeder connects, Windows may show a window called Windows Security Alert. Tick Private networks only, leave Public networks unticked, and choose Allow access.

If you already chose the wrong option, you can change it:

1. Press the Windows key, type firewall.cpl and press Enter.
2. Choose Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
3. Choose Change settings.
4. Find AeroHub Connector in the list. Tick Private and untick Public.
5. Choose OK.

If you want to learn more, Microsoft explains it here: [Essential network settings and tasks in Windows](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/experience/connectivity-networking/essential-network-settings-and-tasks-in-windows) (see the part about network profiles).

Read also [How do I connect the Feeder to my Infinite Flight account?](https://support.aerohubradar.com/article/how-do-i-connect-the-feeder-to-my-infinite-flight-account)