Disable WiFi when Ethernet connected on Windows 7 in a domain

Question

I have an issue with Windows 7 using 2 connections when connected to the domain. I have seen people say just turn off the WiFi but that's not a solution for domain users. In our environment we find that we are maxing out our DHCP server because Windows 7 insists on using both connections (LAN and wi-fi) which in turn takes up 2 IP addresses.

Long story short: Has anyone found a solution that will treat LAN connections like XP use to?

XP use to disable WiFi when it detected a LAN connection that way it only used 1 IP. I have seen this question come up a couple times on this site but the solutions seem directed to a single home user. Basically I would be interested in ways on how to do this through GPO, if possible.

I just want the domain PC's to use a single IP but I don't want to limit them should they undock and want to use the laptop in a meeting room for example.

Answer 1

There are no wireless policies that I know of that can accomplish this, however:

There is a piece of software called 1NET that can disable WiFi on Ethernet connect that can be managed through GPO. I'm not affiliated with it, but I have used it and it works well.

Disconnect Wireless on Wired

1NET can seamlessly disconnect from the corporate wireless/wifi network when the computer is connected by a wired connection. When the wired connection is disconnected, the corporate wireless/wifi network will be reconnected. 1NET works with all USB and traditional docks.

It can also be used to prevent network bridging while in a corporate environment.

System Requirements

• Microsoft Windows 7 or Windows 8 (32bit or 64bit)
  
• Microsoft Windows Domains
  
• Devices must be a member of a Windows Domain
  
• Microsoft .NET Framework 4.0
  
• Mobile broadband modems must be Windows
  7/8 compatible and support the Windows WWAN Service

Answer 2

I agree with Moses, this is a feature request that's been made countless times to Microsoft. They have yet to implement a GPO solution which does this. While there are commercial programs to control the network adapters, it can be scripted as well. If you're savvy and have the drive you can script it. Here are some resources that will help:

Solution from Spiceworks

Microsoft Scripting Guys - Powershell