Bug 504674

Summary: Applying Network settings for an interface does not apply until interface is restarted
Product: [Applications] systemsettings Reporter: Shy Zedaka <shaytzedaka123>
Component: kcm_networkmanagementAssignee: Plasma Bugs List <plasma-bugs-null>
Status: CONFIRMED ---    
Severity: minor CC: jgrulich, kdedev, nate
Priority: NOR Keywords: usability
Version First Reported In: 6.3.5   
Target Milestone: ---   
Platform: Other   
OS: Linux   
Latest Commit: Version Fixed/Implemented In:
Sentry Crash Report:

Description Shy Zedaka 2025-05-22 18:53:15 UTC
Summary:
When modifying a network profile/interface (e.g., setting a static IP, changing DNS servers, etc.) in KDE's Network settings and pressing **Apply**, the settings are saved to the profile, but **they are not applied to the interface** unless the user manually disconnects and reconnects the interface physically or through the applet.

This behavior is confusing and unintuitive, particularly for users coming from Windows where pressing "Apply" restarts the interface and immediately applies the new configuration.

Steps to Reproduce:
1. Open KDE System Settings > Network > Connections
2. Edit a connection and set a static IP address
3. Click "Apply"
4. Observe that the active connection keeps the old IP address until manually disconnected and reconnected

Expected Behavior:
The interface should automatically be restarted upon pressing "Apply" so that the new configuration takes effect immediately.

Proposed Solution:
Automatically restart the target network interface when new settings are applied

This would bring KDE in line with the behavior seen in other operating systems, improve usability, and reduce confusion for users.

Thank you!
Comment 1 TraceyC 2025-05-22 22:30:34 UTC
I can confirm this behavior on git-master, and agree it would make more sense to actually apply settings when the user clicks Apply. Since we don't, the user is going to be left wondering why it didn't work. This is not great UX.
Comment 2 Nate Graham 2025-05-27 20:16:13 UTC
Shy, what version of Plasma are you using?
Comment 3 Shy Zedaka 2025-05-27 20:30:01 UTC
(In reply to Nate Graham from comment #2)
> Shy, what version of Plasma are you using?

I'm using Plasma version 6.3.5
Comment 4 Shy Zedaka 2025-06-23 21:21:26 UTC
Hello! I'm planning on offering a bounty on behalf of FluffNet LLC regarding this issue.