Having a fiber connection at home typically comes with unlimited data usage, but there are scenarios where you might want to control or limit your internet traffic in Windows. This can be particularly relevant if you have a 4G home internet plan or if you’re using mobile data to connect to the internet. In such cases, it’s advisable to set limits to avoid exceeding your data allowance. Here, we’ll explain how you can do this in Windows.
How to Set Data Limits:
To establish data limits in Windows, follow these steps:
- Access Windows Settings: Begin by opening the Start menu and searching for “Settings.”
- Navigate to Network Settings: In the Settings menu, select the “Network and Internet” option represented by a world icon.
- Check Data Usage: In the Network and Internet window, you’ll see a graph at the top that displays your network status, including whether you’re connected via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Just below this graph, you’ll find details about your data consumption in the last thirty days.
- View Data Usage Details: Click on the “Data usage” option. This will open a new window displaying a list of all the programs on your computer and the data consumption attributed to each program. You’ll see familiar applications like your web browser, music streaming services (e.g., Spotify), video calling apps (e.g., Skype), and others such as Netflix if you have the desktop version installed. These details provide insights into how many gigabytes or megabytes these programs have used in the past 30 days.
- Specify Data Limit: At the top of the screen, you’ll find an option labeled “Specify limit.” Click on this button to set a data limit that will help you avoid exceeding your data allowance. Regardless of your internet service provider or plan, Windows will send you alerts to prevent overages.
- Configure Data Limit: In the pop-up window, you’ll have several options to configure your data limit:
- Limit Type: Choose between “Monthly,” “Once,” or “Unlimited” based on your needs. For example, select “Monthly” if you want to set a monthly data cap to receive notifications.
- Day of the Month for Reset: Specify the day of the month when your data usage will reset.
- Data Limit (Amount): Set the desired data limit in figures.
- Unit (MB or GB): Indicate whether the limit is in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
Once you’ve configured your data limit, Windows will automatically send you notifications as you approach your set limit. This allows you to make informed decisions about your data usage and whether adjustments are necessary.
Metered Connection:
Another option to control internet data consumption in Windows is to enable a “Metered Connection.” This feature provides additional control over data usage. Windows explains, “If you have a limited usage plan and want more control over your data usage, turn this connection into a metered network.” Keep in mind that enabling this feature may affect the operation of some applications, as they may adapt to reduce data usage when connected to a metered network.
Here’s how to enable a metered connection:
- Access Network Settings: Open the Settings menu on your computer.
- Navigate to Network Settings: Select “Network and Internet” in the settings section.
- Identify Your Network: In the network status window, locate your Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
- Access Network Properties: Click on “Properties” to access network settings.
- Choose Network Profile: Here, you can choose between a public or private network profile. Additionally, you’ll find the “Metered connection” option, which you can toggle on or off as needed. Enabling a metered connection can help reduce data usage by blocking automatic updates, cloud file synchronization, and limiting certain tasks while the feature is active. You can turn it on or off whenever you wish, whether you’re connected via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage and limit your internet data usage in Windows, ensuring you stay within your data limits and avoid overages.