How to Enable Updates for Edge on Metered Connections

What is Microsoft Edge?

Microsoft Edge is the web browser that comes with Windows 11. It functions similarly to 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 wish.

Why Control Updates on Metered Connections?

When you’re on a metered internet plan, which has data limits, it’s important to control Edge updates. Automatic updates can quickly eat into your data allowance, potentially costing you extra.

If you allow Edge updates on metered connections, the browser will download them no matter your network status, keeping it current but consuming more data. This means it will download updates regardless of the network you’re using, using more of your data allowance.

Method 1Enable Updates Through Microsoft Edge Settings

Step 1Open Microsoft Edge

Click the Edge browser icon on 🖥️ your taskbar. Alternatively, click the ⊞ Start menu, search for “Microsoft Edge,” and select it from the results.

Step 2⚙️ Go to Settings

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

Step 3Turn Updates On or Off

On the About Microsoft Edge page, you will find a toggle button. Turn the toggle On to let Edge download updates regardless of your connection type. Flip it Off to ensure updates only occur on non-metered networks.

Step 4Close Microsoft Edge

Close the browser to complete the process.

Method 2Enable Updates Using Windows Registry

The Edge update setting can be changed using the Windows Registry, specifically by editing the `🗝️HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\EdgeUpdatecopy` path. This registry method offers more direct control over update behavior compared to the graphical interface.

Step 1Open Registry Editor

⚠️ Admin Required

The Registry Editor, a tool for advanced ⚙️ Windows settings, opens to the folder path 🗝️HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft. This tool allows you to change settings that influence how Windows operates.copy

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

Step 2Create the Folder (If Needed)

If you do not see the {56EB18F8-B008-4CBD-B6D2-8C97FE7E9062} folder, 🖱️ right-click on ClientStateMedium and create a new subkey; think of it as making a new folder inside the Registry Editor.

Step 3Create a New Value

Right-click within the {56EB18F8-B008-4CBD-B6D2-8C97FE7E9062} folder. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name the new entry ‘MeteredConnectionUpdates’.

Step 4Set 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

Managing Edge updates on metered connections is possible through the browser’s settings or the Windows Registry for more advanced control. Turning on metered updates keeps Edge current but consumes more data; therefore, turn it off if you have a limited data plan. Choose the method that best suits your needs for controlling Edge updates on metered connections.

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

Enabling metered updates for Edge keeps the browser current but uses additional data. Turn off metered updates if your data plan is limited. Select the approach that aligns with your internet usage scenario.