How to Turn Metered connection On or Off with Cellular Connection in Windows 11

What is a Metered Connection?

A metered connection in Windows 11 is like having a data limit on your internet, similar to your phone plan. Windows uses less data automatically when this is on to help you avoid extra charges, especially if you have a limited data plan.

For instance, it might hold off on downloading large Windows updates automatically. Certain applications might also adjust their behavior to conserve data. This is important because if your cellular plan has a data cap, you probably don’t want your computer downloading massive files or streaming video without you knowing. Designating the connection as metered helps you gain control and potentially save money.

How 🪟 Windows 11 Handles Metered Connections

When Windows 11 knows your connection is metered, it automatically tries to save data. It does this by pausing big updates and making apps use less data in the background, so you don’t use up your data allowance too quickly.

• Windows Updates: Big updates might not download by themselves. You’ll usually see a message and can choose to download them later when you’re on 📶 Wi-Fi or have extra data.
• App Behavior: Some apps will use less data. They might sync less often, use lower quality for videos, or stop using data in the background.
• Background Data: Apps that use data when you’re not actively using them might be stopped. This stops hidden data use.

Remember, not all apps will respect this setting. Some might keep using data as normal, so it’s wise to check your apps’ individual data usage settings, especially if your data plan is tight.

Setting Your Cellular Connection as Metered

Setting your cellular connection as metered in Windows 11 is simple and helps you manage data use. You just need to open Settings, go to ‘Network & internet,’ and then find the option to mark your connection as metered.

1. ⚙️ Open Settings: Click the ⊞ Start button, type “Settings,” and select ⚙️ the Settings app. Or, press the Windows key + I keys on your keyboard.
2. Go to Network & internet: In ⚙️ the Settings window, click on “Network & internet” in the left sidebar.
3. Choose Cellular: Find and click on the “Cellular” option.
   Tip: If you don’t see “Cellular,” your computer doesn’t have this feature, and this guide won’t apply.
4. Find Metered Connection: Under Cellular settings, look for “Metered connection.” For cellular connections, this is usually “On” or “Set data usage limit.”
5. Adjust as Needed: You’ll likely see a switch or a dropdown menu.

    

   • If the switch is “On,” your connection is metered. Windows will manage data use.
   • You might see “Set data limit.” Clicking this lets you enter your data limit and when your billing cycle ends. Windows will warn you when you get close to your limit.
   • If you need to turn this off for a specific reason (not usually recommended for limited plans), you might be able to switch it to “Off.”

What Happens When You Turn Metered Connection On or Off?

Turning the metered connection on in Windows 11 tells your computer to save data by pausing updates and limiting background activity. Turning it off means Windows will use data freely, downloading updates and running apps without worrying about data limits.

When Metered Connection is OFF: Windows 11 will operate as though you have an ample data supply. It will download updates automatically, and applications might consume more data in the background. This is generally not advisable for cellular connections with data caps, as it can lead to significant usage and unforeseen expenses.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/cellular-settings-in-windows-905568ff-7f31-3013-efc7-3f396ac92cd7#windowsversion=windows_11

Summary

Setting your connection as metered in Windows 11 helps your computer use less data, which is great for cellular plans to avoid extra charges and prevent unexpected data usage.