How to Enable or Disable Cellular Use in Windows 11
Cellular use in Windows 11 lets you control your PC’s connection to mobile networks, using either a physical SIM card or an eSIM.
This feature allows your computer to connect to a cellular network, similar to how your smartphone accesses the internet. It uses a built-in modem or a separate USB cellular modem to provide internet when Wi-Fi is not available.
Cellular data can act as a vital backup internet connection. For example, Windows 11 can automatically switch to your cellular connection if your Wi-Fi signal weakens, keeping you online.
Open Settings, go to Network & internet, then Cellular. Toggle “Use cellular whenever Wi-Fi is poor” to On to enable or Off to disable. You may also need a mobile data plan and SIM or eSIM.
How to Check if Your PC Supports Cellular Data
Enable or Disable Cellular in Settings
Enabling or disabling cellular use in Windows 11 is done through the Settings app. This lets you decide if your computer should use a mobile network for internet, helping you manage data usage and avoid unexpected charges.
- Open the Windows Settings app by pressing the ⊞ Win+I.
- Click on Network & internet in the left-hand menu.
- Click the Cellular tile on the right side of the screen.
- Find the option labeled Use cellular whenever Wi-Fi is poor.
- Toggle the switch to On to enable it, or Off to disable it.
Setting Up Your Mobile Data Plan
To use cellular data on your Windows 11 PC, you first need to set up a mobile data plan with your carrier. This typically involves using a physical SIM card or an eSIM profile, similar to how you’d set up a phone.
Enable or Disable via Registry Editor
Disabling cellular use in Windows 11 can be achieved by making a change in the Registry Editor. This is an advanced method that lets you control the setting directly, but you'll need administrator access to your PC to do it.
- Press the Windows key, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WcmSvc\CellularFailover - If the folder is missing, right-click
WcmSvc, select New > Key, and name itCellularFailover.
- Right-click in the empty space, select New > String Value, and name it
AllowFailover. - Double-click
AllowFailoverand set the value to2to enable or0to disable.
Troubleshooting Connectivity
Summary
This guide explained how to enable cellular data on Windows 11, including hardware checks, eSIM setup, and registry tweaks. By following these steps, you can ensure your device stays connected even when Wi-Fi is unavailable or unreliable.
Can I use both Wi-Fi and cellular data at the same time?
Yes, Windows 11 can keep both connections active. However, it will prioritize Wi-Fi for data traffic. Cellular data is typically used as a backup failover connection when the Wi-Fi signal becomes weak or disconnected, ensuring you stay online without manual intervention.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!