How to Use a Windows 10 Metered Connection

Limit data usage on Windows 10 with a metered connection

Updated on September 27, 2020

The metered connection setting for Windows 10 helps you manage your internet data usage. This feature is especially useful when traveling or using an internet service with a small download limit.

Information in this article applies to all computers and tablets running Windows 10.

What Is a Windows 10 Metered Connection?

The metered connection setting limits the functionality of an existing internet connection. Any Wi-Fi network you use can be labeled as a metered connection. When using a metered connection, most operating system and app downloads are paused, and some background operations also stop working.

How to Set Up a Metered Connection on Windows 10

Before you can mark a connection as metered, it must first be added to your device's list of known networks. This is done automatically when you first connect to the network. After the initial connection has been made:

Press the Windows key and select the Settings gear icon.
Select Network & Internet.
Select WiFi in the left pane, then select Manage known networks.
Select the name of the network you want to manage and then select Properties underneath.

There is no limit to the number of metered connections you can set.
Select the toggle switch under Set as metered connection to turn it On.

To return a metered connection to its default settings, repeat the steps above and select the switch again to turn it Off.

Is a Metered Connection Safe?

Setting a connection as metered doesn't make it any more or less secure. The metered connection setting just limits the amount of data that can be used when connected; it doesn't add any protection against hacking, viruses, worms, or other such online dangers.

Reduce your risks of contracting malware by installing antivirus software and avoiding unknown Wi-Fi networks.

When to Use a Metered Connection

Some wireless networks charge users based on the amount of data they download. Others place hard limits on data usage. The Windows 10 metered connection setting can be useful in such situations. For example:

When staying in a hotel room with an expensive internet package.
When renting a portable Wi-Fi device while traveling.
When you use your smartphone as a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect your Windows 10 device to it.
When visiting a friend or family member who has a low data internet plan.
When you're on a slow internet connection and want to prioritize an active app over background downloads and updates.

When Not to Use a Metered Connection

While the metered connection setting can be useful in a variety of circumstances, it's not a good idea to use it all the time since it can decrease your device's overall functionality. Here are some features that are affected when the metered connection setting is activated:

Some Windows 10 operating system and security updates won't download and install, which can make your device more vulnerable to attacks or infections.
Windows 10 apps won't update. This can be a problem as many Windows 10 apps require the latest version to run properly.
Windows 10 Live Tiles may not update. This could be an issue if you rely on your Start Menu for important information such as weather reports or appointment reminders.