microsoft / microsoft/PowerToys

Improve network adapter grouping and UI clarity in the Windows System Commands plugin

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#44,780 0 comments 0 reactions 0 assignees View on GitHub
Needs-Triage Product-PowerToys Run
Dominant language
C
Stars
139k
Forks
8.6k
PR merge metrics
PR metrics pending

Description

### Description of the new feature / enhancement

PowerToys Run’s “Windows System Commands” plugin currently shows a long, flat list of network‑related entries, including all bindings and filters (QoS, LLDP, IPv4/IPv6, virtual adapters, VPN filters, etc.). This makes the list cluttered and difficult to scan, especially on systems with many virtual or filtered adapters.
A grouped, hierarchical layout would make the UI much clearer and easier to navigate.

### Scenario when this would be used?

Whenever a user opens the “Windows System Commands” plugin and wants to view or interact with network adapters.
A grouped layout helps users quickly identify their actual physical or virtual adapters without being overwhelmed by dozens of low‑level bindings. This improves usability for both beginners and power users.

### Supporting information

Current list mixes physical adapters, virtual adapters, and technical bindings in one flat view.

Grouping similar to Device Manager or Network Connections would improve clarity.

Optional toggle to hide technical bindings (QoS, LLDP, filter drivers) would reduce noise.

This is a UX improvement only; no functional changes required.

Contributor guide

Open the contributing guide

Research direction

Start by locating the Windows System Commands plugin and reviewing how its current flat network adapter list is built and displayed. Compare the existing entries with the requested physical, virtual, and technical-binding groupings. Done means the network entries have a clearer hierarchical presentation; the optional toggle for technical bindings needs a scope decision.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.

Assessment

Domain
desktop
Issue type
Feature
Difficulty
5/5
Estimated time
Over a week
Activity status
Stale
Clarity
Mostly clear
Newbie friendliness
30/100

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