How to Enable Updates for Edge on Metered Connections

This article shows you how to turn Microsoft Edge updates on or off when you’re using a metered internet connection.

What is Microsoft Edge?

Microsoft Edge is the web browser that comes with Windows 11. It works the same way as Google Chrome and runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS computers.

By default, Microsoft Edge automatically checks for and installs the latest updates. You can also manually check for updates whenever you want.

Why Control Updates on Metered Connections?

Here’s the problem: Microsoft Edge only downloads updates when you’re on a regular internet connection. If you’re on a metered connection (like a phone hotspot or limited data plan), Edge won’t update until you connect to a regular network.

What happens when you enable updates on metered connections? Edge will download updates no matter what network you’re using. This keeps your browser current but uses more of your data.

Method 1: Enable Updates Through Microsoft Edge Settings

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge

Click the Edge browser icon on your taskbar. Or click the Start menu, search for “Microsoft Edge,” and click it in the results.

Step 2: Go to Settings

Click the three dots menu button in the top right corner of Edge. Select Help and feedback, then click About Microsoft Edge.

Step 3: Turn Updates On or Off

On the About Microsoft Edge page, you’ll see a toggle button. Turn it On to download updates over any connection. Turn it Off to only update on regular networks.

Step 4: Close Microsoft Edge

Close the browser to finish.

Method 2: Enable Updates Using Windows Registry

You can also change this setting using the Windows Registry. This method gives you more control.

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

⚠️ Admin Required

Open the Windows Registry and go to this folder path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate\ClientStateMedium\{56EB18F8-B008-4CBD-B6D2-8C97FE7E9062}

Step 2: Create the Folder (If Needed)

If you don’t see the {56EB18F8-B008-4CBD-B6D2-8C97FE7E9062} folder, right-click on ClientStateMedium and create it as a new subkey.

Step 3: Create a New Value

Right-click inside the {56EB18F8-B008-4CBD-B6D2-8C97FE7E9062} folder. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it allowautoupdatesmetered.

Step 4: Set the Value

Double-click the new allowautoupdatesmetered entry. Set the value to:

• 1 = Turn on updates over metered connections
• 0 = Turn off updates over metered connections

Summary

You now know two ways to control Microsoft Edge updates on metered connections:

• Use the Edge browser settings for a quick, easy change
• Use the Windows Registry for more advanced control

Turning on metered updates keeps Edge current but uses more data. Turn it off if you have a limited data plan. Choose what works best for your internet situation.