How to Use a Windows 10 Metered Connection

Limit data usage on Windows 10 with a metered connection

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 with 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 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:

  1. Select the Windows icon, and then select the Settings gear icon.

    Windows 10 Start Menu in fullscreen mode with Settings gear highlighted
  2. Select Network & Internet.

    Windows 10 Settings with Network & Internet highlighted
  3. Select Wi-Fi in the left pane, then select Manage known networks.

    Windows 10 Wi-Fi settings with Manage known networks highlighted
  4. Select the name of the network you want to manage, then select Properties.

    Windows 10 Wi-Fi settings with Properties highlighted

    There is no limit to the number of metered connections you can set.

  5. Select the Set as metered connection toggle switch to turn it on.

    Windows 10 metered connection settings

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

Is a Metered Connection Safe?

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

Reduce your risks of contracting malware by installing a free 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. Other networks place hard limits on data usage. The Windows 10 metered connection setting can be useful in situations such as:

  • 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's how some Windows 10 features are affected when the metered connection setting is activated:

  • The operating system and security updates won't download and install, which can make your device more vulnerable to attacks or infections.
  • Apps won't update. This can be a problem as many Windows 10 apps require the latest version to run properly.
  • 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.
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