How to make network connections metered on Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a feature to set any Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection as metered to limit the background data usage of the system and apps. Typically, this feature is useful to conserve data and avoid going over the internet limits, such as when using a mobile hotspot or capped connection.

If you enable the metered connection feature on a wireless or wired internet connection, Windows 11 and the Microsoft Store will stop downloading updates for the system and apps. Some apps, such as OneDrive, will pause syncing files and other content to the cloud, and certain apps may not operate correctly until the restriction is lifted as they may rely on an internet connection.

Whatever the ready might be, Windows 11 makes it easy to configure them as metered connections through the Settings app.

In this how-to guide, we will walk you through the steps to turn on and off the feature to make Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections metered on Windows 11.

How to enable Wi-Fi metered connection on Windows 11

To make a Wi-Fi connection metered on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & internet.
3. Click the Wi-Fi page on the right side.

4. Click the network properties setting for the active connection.

• Quick note: If the adapter isn't connected to a network, you won't see this option.

5. Turn on the Metered connection toggle switch.

Once you complete the steps, the wireless connection will be set as metered, saving data to help you prevent going over your data limit.

A metered connection only applies to the current connection, not the network adapter. If you connect to another capped network, you must also set it as metered. Otherwise, Windows 11 and apps will have complete access to the internet. Also, while updates will not download when a connection is set as metered, Windows 11 will still try to download critical updates that might be essential to the system's operation.

Disable Wi-Fi metered connection

To turn off Wi-Fi metered connection on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & internet.
3. Click the Wi-Fi page on the right side.

4. Click the network properties setting.

5. Turn off the Metered connection toggle switch.

After you complete the steps, the connection will return to its normal operation, allowing Windows 11 and apps unlimited internet access.

How to enable Ethernet metered connection on Windows 11

To make an Ethernet connection metered, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & internet.
3. Click the Ethernet page on the right side.

4. Turn on the Metered connection toggle switch.

Once you complete the steps, the Ethernet connection will start operating as a metered connection limiting data usage.

Disable Ethernet metered connection

To disable metered connection for an Ethernet adapter, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on Network & internet.
3. Click the Ethernet page on the right side.

4. Turn off the Metered connection toggle switch.

After you complete the steps, the wired connection will once again have full access to the internet data.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know