How to Set Up a Metered Connection on Windows 11 for Data Management

In the digital age, where streaming, gaming, and constant connectivity reign supreme, managing your data consumption has become more important than ever. For users on limited data plans, a little conscientiousness can prevent budget-breaking surprises. Windows 11 offers a nifty feature that allows you to set a metered connection—essentially telling your operating system, "Hey, hold back on the data usage!" In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into how to set up a metered connection on your Windows 11 PC, ensuring you can browse the web without worrying about overage charges.

What is a Metered Connection?​

A metered connection is a way of designating a network as one that has limited data availability. This feature is particularly useful if you’re tethering your laptop to a mobile hotspot or if you rely on an ISP with strict data caps. When your connection is marked as metered:

• Windows Restricts Updates: Non-essential system and application updates are delayed, meaning you won’t receive the latest features ASAP.
• App Syncs are Halted: Cloud services like OneDrive and Dropbox will pause syncs, preserving your data cap.
• Data Usage Notifications: You can set data usage limits, enabling Windows to alert you when you approach your cap.

However, be wary: this feature isn’t foolproof. Users have reported instances where significant updates, such as large game downloads from the Microsoft Store, sneak by even when the connection is set as metered. Like trying to hide a slice of chocolate cake from a hungry kid—it might not always work!

How to Set Your Connection as Metered​

Setting your connection type to metered can be done in several ways, so you have options depending on your preference:

1. Using Settings​

This method is user-friendly and straightforward.

1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I on your keyboard.
2. Network & Internet: From the left sidebar, select "Network & Internet."
3. Your Connection: Choose your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection on the right pane.
4. Properties: Click on "[Connection Name] Properties."
5. Toggle Metered Connection: Switch on the "Metered Connection" toggle.

And just like that, you’ve enabled the metered connection! If you decide later that unlimited browsing is in your future, you can just flip the toggle back off.

2. Using Command Prompt​

For the more technically inclined, this option gives you finer control, though it's limited to Wi-Fi connections:

1. Open Command Prompt: Hit Windows + S, type "Command Prompt," and select "Run as Administrator."
2. View Wi-Fi Networks: Input the command:
   
   Code:

   bash netsh wlan show profiles

3. Set as Metered: Identify your network and input the command:
   
   Code:

   bash netsh wlan set profileparameter name="YourNetwork" cost=fixed

4. Verify the Setting: To confirm, run:
   
   Code:

   bash netsh wlan show profiles name="YourNetwork"

   Look for "Cost: Fixed" to indicate it is set properly.

If you decide to switch back to unmetered, just replace cost=fixed with cost=unrestricted in the last command.

3. Using Registry Editor​

Warning: This option requires caution, as incorrect changes can destabilize your system.

1. Open Registry Editor: Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to the Path: Go to:
   
   Code:

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\NetworkList\DefaultMediaCost

3. Change Wi-Fi and Ethernet Values: For Wi-Fi, double-click "WiFi" and set the value to 2. For Ethernet, repeat the same process with the "Ethernet" option.
4. Restart Your PC: Changes won’t take effect until the next reboot.

Setting a Data Limit for Your Metered Connection​

Windows 11 allows you to set a precise data limit, serving as a safety net to help you stay on budget:

1. Return to Settings: Press Windows + I.
2. Network & Internet: Select your network type (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
3. Set Data Limit: Under “Metered Connection,” choose "Set a Data Limit to Help Control Data Usage."
4. Configure Limit: Click "Enter Limit," select a limit type (monthly, one-time, etc.), and input your data cap—then save the changes.

This clever feature means Windows will do its utmost to keep you under budget, alerting you as you approach your self-imposed ceiling.

Conclusion​

Setting a metered connection in Windows 11 is a savvy move for data-conscious users. Whether you’re on a mobile hotspot, a budget data plan, or simply wish to maintain control over your internet usage, this step empowers you to monitor your consumption actively. While not entirely foolproof, it provides a solid framework for avoiding unexpected data bills, allowing you to surf, stream, and game with peace of mind.
Next time your buddy asks why you aren’t streaming the latest blockbuster, just smile and say you prefer to save those gigabytes for something special!
Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions about this feature in the comments below!

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Source: How-To Geek How to Set Up a Metered Connection on Windows 11