We have more and more devices connected to the network. Today we have a large number of IoT devices, such as televisions, smart light bulbs, video players … But also, within each of the devices that we are using with connection, we also have a large number of applications that make use of of the network. In this article we are going to explain how to see which programs are using the Internet on our Windows system.
Why it is interesting to know the programs connected to the Internet
Windows is currently the most widely used desktop operating system. This means that there is a wide range of possibilities in terms of options and tools available. We also have many types of software installed that need access to the Internet to function properly.
Now, we must bear in mind that sometimes it is convenient to know at all times what programs are using the network on our computer. This is interesting since in case of having a weak connection it could be a problem to have many tools making intensive use of the network, but also to avoid security problems.
In case of intruders on our computer, they could sneak a Trojan through a back door and make use of our system through the Internet. They could collect data, execute commands arbitrarily, and ultimately put our security and privacy at risk. We already know that safety is a fundamental factor and must be taken care of at all times.
For all this, it can be interesting to really know what programs are using the Internet on our Windows computer. Luckily this is something that we can see in a simple way and also without having to install anything additional, although we will also have third-party tools.
How to see which programs are using the Internet
In Windows we have a series of functions and features integrated with which we can obtain information regarding our network connections. Among these options we can also see which programs are using our connection. Let’s see what are the main options we have.
Task Manager
One of the easiest ways to see which programs are using the Internet in Windows is to enter the Task Manager . For this we can right-click with the mouse on the Start button and then click on Task Manager, as well as having the option to use the key combination Ctrl + Alt + Del and enter the task manager.
There we will find all the programs and processes that are currently started on the computer. We can see aspects such as the use of RAM, hard disk, etc. We will also find the network section .
There we can see which applications are using the connection at that moment. It measures it in Mbps and we can order it by simply clicking on the Network, so we will see the Portuguese of these programs from highest to lowest.
Resource Monitor
Without leaving the Task Manager, we can click on the performance tab. Once inside we click on Wi-Fi or Ethernet (whatever we are using at that moment) and we click Open the Resource Monitor . It will automatically display a new window where we can see all the programs that are using the network at that moment.
This is, therefore, another option to have more control over Internet use in Windows. In a visual way we will be able to know how much Internet the different programs that we have executed are consuming.
See how much the programs have consumed
We have seen two options to find out which programs are using the Internet at any given time. A way to monitor this consumption live to have total control and even be able to see intruders who are using our equipment.
However, we also have an option to see how much the programs have consumed in the last 30 days. It is very useful if we want to have control in case our data rate is limited. It is very easy to find out.
This time we have to go to Start, we go to Settings, Network and Internet and then to Data usage . There a new window will open with all the programs that have connected to the Internet in the last month. Together with each program we will see the amount downloaded, the data they have consumed.
Therefore, following these steps we can see the Internet consumption of the different programs that we have installed and executed in Windows. As we can see, you simply have to use functions integrated into the system itself, in a simple and fast way.