Windows 11 24H2 Update: How to Manage Internet Speed Impact

As Windows aficionados brace themselves for the latest updates, it's time to discuss a rather ugly truth: the impact of Windows 11 updates on your internet speed. With the recent rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, many users are grappling with unusually sluggish internet performance—a bane for those who rely heavily on a consistent connection. Thankfully, there's a silver lining that can alleviate these problems.

Understanding the Update Cycle: Frequent Updates and Their Impact​

Windows 11, much like its predecessor, has a routine of rolling out updates at breakneck speed. Every month brings cumulative updates, while annual feature updates, such as the recently unleashed 24H2, land with a hefty download size that can slow you down when you need speed the most. While these updates enrich the OS with essential features and security enhancements, they can feel like unwelcome guests crashing a party—especially when your bandwidth takes a hit.

The Dilemma of Bandwidth Drain​

When a Windows update initiates, it gobbles up bandwidth, often right when you’re in the middle of something critical. It's incredibly inconvenient when you're trying to stream a movie, host a video conference, or download large files, and suddenly your internet speeds plummet. Luckily, Windows has built-in strategies to manage this bandwidth crisis.

How to Set a Bandwidth Limit for Windows Update Downloads​

Windows offers several options to ease the burden of updates on your internet connection. Here’s how to configure these settings:

• Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
• Select Windows Update: From the left sidebar, click on Windows Update.
• Access Advanced Options: Find and select Advanced options.
• Navigate to Delivery Optimization: Click on Delivery Optimization to further customize your update preferences.
• Download Options: Under the Download options, select from either Percentage of bandwidth limit (default setting) or Absolute bandwidth limit depending on your needs.
• Set Background Limits: Enable the checkbox for Background limit in Mbps (or as %), where you’ll input the maximum speed you want Windows updates to use in the background.

The right choice here heavily depends on your individual internet speed. For example, a modest 1 Mbps might suit a slower connection while a higher figure could cater to faster lines.

How to Control Upload Bandwidth​

Yes, Windows isn’t a one-way street; it also leeches off your connection to upload updates to other devices, which can further chip away at your upload speeds. Here’s how to set a limit:

• Delivery Optimization Page: Return to the Delivery Optimization page as described previously.
• Expand Upload Options: Locate the Upload options section.
• Limit Uploads: Toggle the Limit as a % of measured bandwidth on, and adjust the slider to allocate a suitable percentage of your upload bandwidth.
• Set a Monthly Upload Limit: You can also configure a Monthly upload limit, with the default set to 500GB.

These settings ensure that even if Windows decides it has one too many updates to deliver, it won’t commandeer the entirety of your bandwidth, leaving you stranded in the digital wilderness.

Conclusion: Embrace Control Over Updates​

When it comes to Windows updates, it’s apparent that they’ve steadily improved but there’s still a long way to go. Thankfully, with the delivery optimization features available, you can now reclaim control over your internet bandwidth during those pesky update seasons. No one should have their workflow interrupted by uninvited download parties, and taking these proactive steps can help maintain a balanced digital ecosystem.

Now It's Your Turn​

With the 24H2 update and its contributing factors fresh in mind, will you dive into these bandwidth management settings to protect your precious internet speed? Or will you brave the digital storm and let Windows do as it pleases? Join the conversation in the comments below and share your thoughts!
Source: XDA Windows 11 24H2 is a big download — here's how to stop Windows updates from slowing down your internet