How to set bandwidth limits for downloads with Delivery Optimization in Windows 11
Delivery Optimization in Windows 11 is a built-in feature that lets you control how much internet speed your PC uses for background downloads like updates and apps. By default, Windows can use all your available connection speed, which often slows down your web browsing or video streaming.
You can easily stop background updates from hogging your internet by setting an exact download or upload speed limit in megabytes per second. This gives you full control over your internet connection, which helps if you share a slow network or have a strict monthly data cap.
Set bandwidth limits for Windows downloads by going to Settings Windows Update Advanced options Delivery Optimization You can then choose to limit downloads to a specific Mbps speed or a percentage of your total internet bandwidth. This prevents background downloads from consuming all your internet speed.
Accessing Delivery Optimization Settings
Here’s how to find the settings to control download speeds:
- Click the Start button (the Windows icon usually in the bottom-left corner).
- Select Settings (it looks like a gear icon).
- In the Settings window, click on Windows Update .
- Click on Advanced options.
- Find and click on Delivery Optimization.
Choosing Your Download Limit Method
Delivery Optimization’s download settings let you control how much internet speed Delivery Optimization uses for downloads in Windows 11. You can set a specific bandwidth limit, for example, allowing only 20% of your total upload bandwidth for background downloads.
You can set limits in two main ways:
1Set a Specific Speed Limit
- In the "Download options" section, find the setting called Limit bandwidth used for downloads.
- Turn this setting On if it's not already.
- You can choose if this limit applies to downloads happening when you’re not actively using your PC (background downloads), when you are using your PC (foreground downloads), or both.
- Enter a number in the box. This number is in Mbps (Megabits per second), which is how fast your internet can be. This is the highest speed your downloads will reach.
2Set a Percentage of Your Internet Speed
Set a percentage of your total connection instead of a fixed speed cap for added flexibility.
- Again, in the "Download options" section, find Limit bandwidth used for downloads and turn it On.
- Choose the option that says Percentage of measured bandwidth.
- You'll see a slider or a place to type a percentage. This is how much of your internet speed Delivery Optimization can use.
- You can usually select if this applies to background downloads, foreground downloads, or both.
Delivery Optimization uses your internet speed effectively. When your connection slows, Delivery Optimization uses less bandwidth. When your connection speeds up, Delivery Optimization can use more, up to the percentage you set. This prevents Delivery Optimization from slowing your internet connection too much, especially when your overall speed fluctuates.
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Summary
Controlling how much bandwidth Windows uses for background updates prevents your connection from slowing down. Head to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization to adjust these limits. There, you can either set a specific speed limit in Mbps or choose a percentage of your total internet speed to ensure your connection stays smooth for other activities.
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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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