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Windows 11 includes a feature that allows you to set Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections as metered to limit the background data usage of the system and apps. Usually, this feature comes in handy to conserve data and avoid going over the internet limits, such as when using a mobile hotspot or capped internet connection.
If you enable the metered connection feature on a wireless or wired internet connection, Windows 11 and the Microsoft Store will stop downloading updates for the system and apps, some apps like OneDrive will pause syncing files and other content to the cloud, and certain apps may not operate correctly until the restriction lifted as they may rely on an internet connection.
Regardless of the connection available on the computer, Windows 11 makes it easy to configure them as metered connections using the Settings app.
In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to enable and disable the feature to make Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections metered.
To make a Wi-Fi connection metered on Windows 11, use these steps:
Click the Wi-Fi page on the right side.
Click the network properties setting for the active connection.
Quick note: If the adapter isn't connected to a network, you won't see this option.
Turn on the Metered connection toggle switch.
Once you complete the steps, the wireless connection will be set as metered, saving data to help you avoid going over the data cap.
A metered connection only applies to the current connection, not the network adapter. If you connect to another capped network, you must also set it as metered. Otherwise, Windows 11 and apps will have unlimited access to the internet. Also, while updates will not download when a connection is set as metered, Windows 11 will still try to download critical updates that might be essential to the system operation.
To disable Wi-Fi metered connection on Windows 11, use these steps:
Click the Wi-Fi page on the right side.
Click the network properties setting.
Turn off the Metered connection toggle switch.
After you complete the steps, the connection will return to normal operation, allowing Windows 11 and apps to have unlimited access to the internet.
To make an Ethernet connection metered, use these steps:
Click the Ethernet page on the right side.
Turn on the Metered connection toggle switch.
Once you complete the steps, the Ethernet connection will start operating as a metered connection limiting data usage.
To disable metered connection for an Ethernet adapter, use these steps:
Click the Ethernet page on the right side.
Turn off the Metered connection toggle switch.
After you complete the steps, the wired connection will once again have full access to the internet data.
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
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