Windows 11 includes a built-in Maps application that allows you to download geographic data for offline use. To ensure these maps remain accurate, Windows runs a background service that automatically connects to the internet to download multi-gigabyte map updates whenever it detects a Wi-Fi connection.
If you never use the native Windows Maps application (preferring Google Maps in your browser or on your phone), this background updating process is a massive waste of bandwidth. If you are on a metered internet connection, a mobile hotspot, or simply want to stop Microsoft from silently downloading gigabytes of data in the background, you can completely disable automatic offline map updates.
How to Turn Off Automatic Map Updates in Windows 11
You can stop the background downloads from the Offline Maps settings menu.
- Click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon (or press Windows Key + I).
- In the left-hand navigation pane, click on Apps.
- Click on Offline maps in the main window.
- Scroll down to the “Map updates” section.
- You will see a toggle switch labelled Update automatically when plugged in and on Wi-Fi.
- Click the toggle switch to turn it completely Off.
- (Optional) If you want to reclaim hard drive space immediately, click the Delete all button at the top of the page to wipe out any previously downloaded maps.
Windows 11 will permanently cease all background communications regarding geographic map data. It will never silently download map updates again, saving you significant bandwidth and preventing unexpected network congestion on your PC.