How to choose network sharing options for Delivery Optimization in Windows 11
Delivery Optimization in Windows 11 speeds up app and system updates by letting your PC share download files with other computers. This built-in feature works in the background to grab updates faster while cutting down on internet data use.
You can choose between different network sharing settings to control exactly how your PC shares files. Setting the option to local network sharing keeps update traffic inside your home or office, which saves your internet bandwidth without slowing down your downloads.
To manage Delivery Optimization network sharing, open Settings , navigate to Windows Update Advanced options Delivery Optimization Here, you can choose “Allow downloads from other devices” to enable sharing on your local network or the internet, or turn it off for direct downloads only from Microsoft.
Choosing How Your Computer Shares Downloaded Files
Windows 11 gives you full control over how your computer shares these downloaded files. This feature helps get updates and apps faster by getting parts of files from other computers, and your PC can help others too. You control if your PC shares files and with whom, making the process efficient and secure.
Here’s how to change these settings:
- Open Settings . Click the Start button , then click the gear icon that says “Settings.”
- Go to Windows Update . In Settings, find and click on “Windows Update .”
- Find Advanced options. On the Windows Update screen, click on “Advanced options.”
- Locate Delivery Optimization. In Advanced options, click on “Delivery Optimization.”
- Manage Downloads from Other Devices. This is where you make the main choice. Look for an option called “Allow downloads from other devices.”
- If you want your computer to download parts of updates from other computers on your home network (like other PCs or some Xboxes), turn this option to On. This can make downloads faster, especially if your internet is slow.
If you turn it On, you will see more choices:
- Devices on my local network: This is a good option. Your computer will only download from other devices on your home network. This is generally safe and can still make downloads faster without using other people’s computers.
- Devices on the internet and my local network: This option lets your computer download from other computers on your home network and from the internet. This can make downloads the fastest, but it means your computer might download from and upload to computers you don’t know.
- If you want your computer to only download directly from Microsoft and not share or get files from other computers, turn “Allow downloads from other devices” to Off. You will still get all your updates and apps, but it might take a little longer, and your internet connection will do all the work.
Good tip: For most people at home, choosing “Devices on my local network” when “Allow downloads from other devices” is “On” offers a good balance between speed and safety. It uses your home network without sharing files over the public internet.
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Summary
Delivery Optimization in Windows 11 speeds up downloads by sharing files between devices on your local network or the internet. You can manage these sharing options within Windows Settings, under the Windows Update advanced settings. This control ensures you can decide how your computer participates in file sharing for updates.
What is the best network connection setting for 🪟 Windows 11?
When joining a new network, Windows 11 automatically sets it as public for better security. However, you can set it as public or private depending on the network and what you want to do: Public network (Recommended): Use this for networks you connect to at home, work, or in a public place.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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