How to change network location from Private to Public in Windows 8.1?

The first time that you connect to a new network, Windows asks you to choose a network location. This automatically sets the appropriate firewall and security settings for the type of network that you connect to. If you connect to networks in different locations, choosing a network location can help ensure that your computer is always set to an appropriate security level.

This tutorial will guide you from where you can change a network location in Windows 8.1.

To choose a network location:

Step 1: Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, tap Settings, and then tap Change PC settings.

• If you're using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, click Settings, and then click Change PC settings.

Step 2: On the PC Settings screen, Tap or click Network, and then tap or click the connection you wish to change the location settings.

Step 3: Under Find devices and content, select "On" for private network location or "Off" for public network location.

Check the Network Location in Windows 8.1
The Network and Sharing Center can let you see if your network is public or private. To open the "Network and Sharing Center", tap or click the Desktop tile on the Start screen, or press Windows logo key + D on your keyboard. Press and hold or right click on the Network icon on the taskbar, then tab or click Open Network and Sharing Center.

Private network

Public network

Warning!
Choosing private network changes the firewall configuration to allow communication. This can be a security risk.

Reference
Windows 7: Choosing a network location