If you’re utilizing mobile data for internet browsing on your PC or working with a limited data plan, you might wish to restrict Windows 11 from consuming excessive data. This is particularly relevant if you’re on a low data plan or facing sluggish internet speeds. It’s advisable to keep tabs on data usage and implement measures to curb Windows 11 data consumption. The good news is that there is a way to achieve this, allowing you to limit the amount of data utilized by your PC.
How to Stop Windows 11 From Using So Much Data
If you’re unsure about how to accomplish that, rest assured, we’re here to guide you through the process.
Disable Sync Your Settings
Windows synchronizes your settings to allow for the restoration of the same configuration after resetting your PC. However, this feature can consume a significant amount of data if activated. To disable it, follow the steps below:
- In the Start Menu, search for “Sync your settings” and open it.
- Now, turn off the toggle for “Remember my apps” and “Remember my preferences” to disable the sync your settings feature.
Turn Off Windows Update
Windows automatically downloads updates, and this process may consume a significant amount of your data at unpredictable moments. If you find that Windows 11 is using excessive data, consider disabling Windows Update. To turn off Windows Update, follow the steps below:
- Press the Windows + I key combination to open the Settings app on your device.
- Navigate to the Windows Update section from the left sidebar.
- Click on the “Pause for 1 week” button to temporarily halt automatic updates for Windows. Please note that you can only pause Windows updates for 1 week.
Turn On Metered Connection
A metered connection helps minimize data usage for various Windows processes. It restricts data consumption for activities such as downloading updates, app updates, start menu tile updates, and other processes. To disable the metered connection, follow the steps below:
- Enable a metered connection through the Settings app.
- Open the Settings using the Windows + I key combination.
Navigate to the Network & Internet option in the left sidebar. Choose Wi-Fi if you are using a wireless connection or Ethernet if connected through a wired connection. Click on Network Properties. You’ll find the Metered connection toggle here. Activate this toggle to enable a metered connection.
Set Data Limit
The final adjustment you can make is to set a data limit, controlling the amount of data Windows 11 utilizes each month. To establish a data limit, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your PC. You can do this by typing “Settings” in the Start Menu and selecting it.
- In the left sidebar, click on the Network & Internet section.
- On the right side, click on Advanced network settings.
- On the next screen, select Data Usage.
- Here, you can view your monthly data consumption.
- Click on Enter Limit to specify the limit. Choose between Monthly, One time, and Unlimited.
- Set the time for the data limit to expire.
- Specify the Data Limit. First, choose the unit (MB or GB), then set the data limit.
- Once you’ve set the data limit, click on Save.
FAQs
How Do I Stop Windows From Consuming Too Much Data?
We’ve provided several suggestions to reduce Windows data consumption. Additional actions you can take include disabling Microsoft Updates, closing unused background apps, and exploring various other options.
Why Is My Windows Consuming So Much Data?
There could be multiple reasons why Windows is using a substantial amount of your data. Possible factors include having automatic Windows updates enabled, automatic app updates activated, downloading large files, and various other potential causes.
Conclusion
If your Windows 11 is consuming an excessive amount of data, you can utilize the steps outlined in this article to mitigate the issue. By following the instructions provided, you can effectively curb Windows 11 from utilizing excessive data.