How to Restrict Background Data Usage in Windows 11

If you are using a laptop tethered to your smartphone’s mobile hotspot, or if your home internet plan has strict data caps, Windows 11’s tendency to download massive updates in the background can quickly drain your data allowance. To prevent unexpected data usage, you can configure your connection as a “Metered Connection” and restrict background data.

Enable Metered Connection

Telling Windows that your network is metered will stop automatic Windows Updates, prevent offline map downloads, and pause automatic app updates from the Microsoft Store.

1. Press the Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Click on Network & internet in the left-hand sidebar.
3. Click on Wi-Fi (or Ethernet, depending on how you are connected), and then click on the name of your current network.
4. Scroll down to the Metered connection toggle and switch it to On.

Restrict Background Data Usage

While a metered connection stops official Windows updates, third-party apps might still consume data in the background. You can set a hard limit to monitor and restrict this.

1. Go back to Network & internet in the Settings app.
2. Click on Advanced network settings at the bottom of the page.
3. Click on Data usage.
4. In the top right corner, click the Enter limit button.
5. Choose whether you want a Monthly limit, a One-time limit, or an Unlimited warning. Enter your data limit (e.g., 5 GB) and click Save.

Once you approach this limit, Windows 11 will automatically warn you and restrict background data usage for all applications, ensuring you never accidentally exceed your data cap.