Windows 7 64 bit compaq excessive data browsing the web

Here are a few steps you can take to diagnose and possibly resolve the data usage issue on your wife's Win 7 64-bit Compaq laptop: 1. Task Manager: - Check Task Manager for background processes consuming data. Look for any unusual or high network usage by processes. - Sort processes by network usage to pinpoint any resource-intensive applications. 2. Resource Monitor: - Use the Resource Monitor tool to get detailed information on which processes are utilizing network resources. 3. Windows Update: - Ensure that Windows Update is not set to download or install updates during that time. Check the Windows Update settings in Control Panel. 4. Browser Extensions: - Review the installed browser extensions or add-ons. Disable any suspicious or unnecessary extensions that might be using data. 5. Windows Update Delivery Optimization: - Windows 10 has a feature called Delivery Optimization that may cause data consumption. Check if a similar feature exists in Windows 7 and disable it if needed. 6. Background Apps: - Review which apps are allowed to run in the background. Disable or restrict unnecessary background apps. 7. Antivirus Scan: - Conduct a full antivirus scan on the system to ensure there are no malware or adware causing data usage. 8. Firewall Settings: - Check the firewall settings to see if any specific applications are allowed to use network data. 9. Software Updates: - Ensure that all software on the laptop is up to date, including the OS, browser, and essential applications. 10. Network Monitoring Tools: - Consider using network monitoring tools to track data consumption in real-time or over specific periods to pinpoint when data usage spikes occur. By following these steps, you may be able to identify the cause of the data consumption on the laptop and take appropriate actions to mitigate it. If the issue persists, seeking assistance from a technical expert or IT support may provide further insights.