Windows: How to Limit Data Consumption

Data consumption on Windows OS can quickly add up, especially with automatic updates, background applications, and cloud services. High data usage can be problematic for users with limited data plans or slow internet connections. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce data usage on Windows, ensuring you stay within your data limits and maintain a smooth browsing experience. This article will provide you with effective tips and tricks to optimize data usage on your Windows OS.

In this article, we will look into 6 ways to reduce your data usages on Windows 10.

METHOD 1. Set Data Limit

Step 1: Open Window Settings

Step 2: Click on Network & Internet.

Step 3: Click on Data Usage

Step 4: Select the wireless or wired network adapter from the “Show settings” menu as per your requirement.

Step 5: Set the limit on the data usages by clicking the Set Limit button under “Data limit”.

Step 6: Select the limit type from Monthly, One time, and Unlimited. Then set the data limit and click on Save.

This will set your network adapter as metered and pause other activities like backup.

METHOD 2. Turn off Background Data usages

Restricting the usage of data by background applications, not in use currently can also reduce data consumption on a limited network. To do so follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open Window Settings

Step 2: Click on Network & Internet.

Step 3: Click on Data Usage.

Step 4: Under the Background data section you can set a limit on data usages by the Windows and store app features as shown below:

METHOD 3. Restrict Background Applications from Using Data

You can specifically restrict selected applications from using data in the background. To do so follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open Window Settings

Step 2: Click on Privacy.

Step 3: Click on App Permissions

Step 4: Select the apps you want not to run in the background from the “Background apps” section as shown below:

METHOD 4. Disable Settings Synchronization

You can disable the synchronization of your machine with the cloud. To do so follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open Window Settings

Step 2: Click on Accounts.

Step 3: Click on Sync your settings.

Step 4: Select off under “sync settings” as shown below:

METHOD 5. Turn Off Microsoft Store Update

You can turn off the Microsoft Store Update by following the below steps: t

Step 1: Open Microsoft Store.

Step 2: Click on Accounts.

Step 3: Set off the button under “App updates” as shown below:

Step 4: Select off under “sync settings” as shown below:

METHOD 6. Pause Windows Updates

This also consumes a large amount of data. To turn off Windows automatic update follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open Window Settings.

Step 2: Click on Update & security.

Step 3: Click on Windows update.

Step 4: Click on Advance options.

Step 5: In the “Update options” select the button under“Pause updates” and set the duration for which the updates will be paused as shown below:

Conclusion

Managing and reducing data consumption on Windows OS is essential for users with limited data plans or slow internet connections. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can effectively lower data usage, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience. Regularly monitoring your data usage and making necessary adjustments will help you stay within your limits and avoid unexpected data overages. Implement these strategies to optimize your data usage and enjoy a more controlled and efficient Windows experience.

How to Limit Data Consumption on Windows OS – FAQ’s

What settings should I change to lower data consumption on Windows?

Change settings such as turning on metered connection, disabling background apps, and adjusting update settings to lower data consumption.

How do I enable metered connection on Windows 10?

To enable a metered connection, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, select your network, and toggle on the “Set as metered connection” option.

Can I disable automatic updates to save data on Windows?

Yes, you can disable automatic updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options, and turning off the “Automatic updates” setting.