The Bandwidth Throttle
Windows 11 features a network management tool called a “Metered Connection.” If you connect to a mobile hotspot or a public Wi-Fi network, Windows will often automatically flag it as “metered” to save data. While this prevents massive system updates from draining your cellular plan, it completely breaks the operating system’s background functionality. The Microsoft Store will refuse to download apps, OneDrive will stop syncing your files, and Outlook will refuse to download email attachments. If you have an unlimited data plan or you are connected to your home router but Windows has incorrectly flagged it, you must remove the artificial throttle.
How to Turn Off Metered Connections
You can instantly remove the data restrictions via the Network & internet settings.
- Click the Start Menu and type Settings, or press the Windows Key + I.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on Network & internet.
- At the top of the window, click on Wi-Fi (or Ethernet, depending on your connection).
- Click on the name of the network you are currently connected to (e.g., “Home_Network_5G”) to view its specific properties.
- Scroll down and locate the toggle switch labeled “Metered connection.”
- Toggle this switch to the Off position.
Unrestricted Data Flow
The change takes effect instantly. Windows 11 will completely remove the software throttle from your network adapter. OneDrive will instantly resume uploading your files, Windows Update will begin downloading patches in the background, and all of your applications will regain unrestricted access to the internet, maximizing your available bandwidth.