Wi-Fi and Wired network load preference

Last modified: Mar 22, 2017 10:39 AM
3 9360 Last modified Mar 22, 2017 10:39 AM

I'm in a (admittedly rare) situation where I have users on Mac who need both an internal and external network. In some of these cases the wi-fi needs to take precedence over the wired network. OS X will allow a network connection to have priority over another connection in any account but you will need the Administrative account to set this up.


• Go to >System Preferences


• Choose Network


• Unlock the panel using the padlock icon in the lower left hand corner of the window with your administrative user and password.


• Go to the gear iconUser uploaded fileand choose Set Service Order

User uploaded file


• Drag the Ethernet listing below the Wi-Fi listing and click Ok.

User uploaded file


• Then click apply

User uploaded file


when the Wi-Fi is off it will list under Ethernet

User uploaded file


As soon as you turn it on and it connects to a Wi-Fi broadcast it will move in position above ethernet making it the primary network connection

User uploaded file


This user tip was generated from the following discussion: Wi-Fi and Wired network load balance

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.