How do I enable the old networking tray icons on Windows 10 1903?

Try3 said:

This is what the system tray ["the Notification area"] network icon looks like in the stated conditions [I use only WiFi]
0 WiFi turned off
1 Not connected to any network
2 Connected to a network that does not have internet access
3 Connected to a network that has internet access

The problem is that states 0 & 1 & 2 show the same icon [so the states are indistinguishable without specific investigation].

I normally only use WiFi too, but I do have Ethernet available and can complete the set for 1903.


4. Connected by Ethernet that has internet access

Like others, I do miss the superior diagnostic abilities of the old network icons prior to 1903.

If I had to guess, Microsoft felt they were 'too confusing' to the general public, thinking this easier to understand:

In the meantime, I created a report in the Feedback Hub app regarding the issue. It's titled "Please, give us a way to get the old networking icons in the tray area back". I don't know if it will help, but maybe if enough people vote it, they'll actually implement the feature

f14tomcat said:

@Zacchi4k - go back to your Feedback Hub post and get a link to it so you can post that link here. That way, people can easily upvote to help.

Oh yes, sorry.

Feedback Hub - Windows Insider

This is the URI (copy-paste it in your browser's address bar): feedback-hub:?contextid=295&feedbackid=698f7227-0684-4793-9859-06210eb5f20e&form=1&src=1

Hi all I have a solution to this issue using a program called NetAnimate. This tool displays an icon in the system tray to show "network activity" . The defualt images however are in classic pre windows 7 style.

The icons can be changed by uploading custom pngs of 16x16 pixels
I made some using the 1903 icons

These images can then be added to the icons folder in the programs directory or as a new set or to replace a current one.
.

I haven't found an option to distinguish between Wi-Fi and ethernet but I suppose its better than the Globe.
Hope this helps, I've scoured the internet for any other solutions/programs and this looks like the best option currently.

At my end, the tray icon remains the same whether the network cable is plugged in or unplugged.