Enable Metered Connection in Ubuntu Linux: Step-by-Step Guide
A metered connection in Ubuntu Linux stops your computer from using up your data limit with background tasks and downloads. Turning on this setting tells Ubuntu to limit internet use on both Wi-Fi and wired Ethernet networks so you avoid surprise bills.
You can use this built-in feature on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and newer versions to control your data use. Setting your network to metered blocks automatic software updates until you connect to an unlimited network.
Open System Settings, click Network, select your connection, click the gear icon, and check the box for Metered connection under Details. Click Apply to save.
How to turn on or off the metered connection in Ubuntu Linux
Turning a metered connection on or off in Ubuntu Linux happens through System Settings. Controlling how much data the computer uses proves especially helpful when internet plans have data caps. Pausing system updates can occasionally leave the Ubuntu installation less secure, though.
Skipping package downloads and updates may make the system vulnerable to threats.
Managing metered connections in Ubuntu Linux takes only a few moments.
Most of Ubuntu Linux’s settings live in one central place: the System Settings panel. Configurations ranging from user accounts to system updates reside here.
Open the Activities overview and type 'Settings'.
Alternatively, click the system menu in the top-right corner of the desktop and select 'Settings'.
In the Settings app, click on the Network tile.
In the System Settings Network panel, select the network adapter (such as a Wi-Fi or Ethernet card) to enable the metered connection.
Ubuntu Linux displays detected network adapters in the Network control panel, allowing internet connection management.
Then click on the settings gear for the network.
On the network interface settings window, under Details, check the box for Metered connection, as highlighted below, then click Apply to save the changes.
Network data usage drops significantly once enabled. Applications might behave differently on a metered connection (a connection that limits data usage) to minimize background traffic.
Closing the Settings app finishes the process.
- Metered connections in Ubuntu Linux are useful for controlling and reducing data usage on specific networks.
- Enabling a metered connection can prevent automatic downloads of updates and large packages, although it's important to stay vigilant about system security.
- Ubuntu Linux's centralized System Settings panel makes it easy to manage network settings, including enabling the metered connection feature.
- Once enabled, apps may adapt their behavior to reduce data usage, providing a more efficient experience while on a metered network.
How to set metered connection in Linux?
From Ubuntu 20.04, developers added the metered connection option. In the GUI: Open Wi-Fi settings, click on the ⚙ Gear Icon next to the Wi-Fi SSID. At the bottom, a Metered Connection checkbox appears.
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Richard
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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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