Introduction ‍

Windows 11 and Windows 10 both define,defines a metered connection ⁠ as an internet connection with an associated data limit. Cellular data connections are set as metered by default, However, Wi-Fi ⁠ and Ethernet network connections do not have this designation. If a connection is specified as metered, several apps ⁠ may adapt their actions to limit data usage. Windows updates may not be installed automatically ⁠ to prevent excessive data consumption.

Understanding Metered Connections ‍

Cellular Data Connections: Cellular data connections are automatically set as ⁠ metered to avoid exceeding data limits on mobile plans. Conserving data and preventing unexpected charges is ⁠ made possible with this setting.

Wi-Fi and Ethernet Network Connections: Default settings do not ⁠ set Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections as metered. Users also have the choice to specifically enable ⁠ metered connections to control data usage. ⁠

App Behavior on Metered Connections: On a metered ⁠ connection, specific apps could have distinct functionalities. to reduce data consumption. For instance, apps may restrict the background data syncing or ⁠ decrease the media content’s quality to save bandwidth. ⁠

Windows Updates and Metered Connections: On metered connections, Windows may defer automatic updates ⁠ to prevent large downloads that could consume a significant amount of data. ‌

Enabling Controlled Data Transfer Setting for ⁠ a Wi-Fi Network Connection ⁠

To set a Wi-Fi network connection as metered in ⁠ Windows 11 and Windows 10, follow these steps: ​

Select Start, then go ⁠ to Settings. ‍
Click on Network & Internet, pick ⁠ Wi-Fi as your preferred connection. ‍
Under Manage known networks, choose the specific Wi-Fi network ⁠ that you wish to designate as metered. ⁠
Click on the Properties option, switch on the ⁠ Set as metered connection toggle after that. ​
Note: Ethernet connections can also be set as metered, ⁠ However, the process does have a minor variation. To set an Ethernet connection as metered, go to Start ⁠ > Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet. Subsequently, go through the procedure to ⁠ configure the connection as metered. ​

Automatic Reset to Metered Connection

Under specific circumstances, if your device utilizes either Windows 10 version 1903 or version 2004, and you disabled the Set as metered connection feature for ⁠ your cellular data connection beforehand, the device could potentially revert back to a metered setting upon awakening from hibernation mode or subsequent shut down. To avoid this automatic reset, examine the metered connection settings ⁠ following these occurrences and adjust them if needed. ‌

Conclusion ​

Managing data usage and preventing excessive consumption are important purposes of metered connections ⁠ in Windows 11 and Windows 10, particularly with limited cellular data plans. By setting Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections as metered, Exercise authority in ⁠ managing how apps and Windows updates consume your data. This leads to a better ⁠ and cheaper online browsing. ⁠

Whether you utilize a mobile hotspot or have the intention to lower data usage on your home network, ⁠ Having knowledge of and making use of metered connections can assist in effectively managing your internet data. Additionally, it can assist in keeping your ⁠ data consumption within the set limits. ‌