5 Top Fixes When Windows 11 is Using So Much Data

Numerous features come with Windows 11, but some of them end up using so much data over time. Possible reasons for this include automatic Windows updates that can be particularly problematic for those with slow internet, and background apps that continue using data even when not actively used.

High data usage can result in overage charges, reduced internet speed, and battery life. Streaming media, online gaming, and cloud services like OneDrive or Dropbox can contribute to this. Background data usage on Windows 11 can also impact battery life and privacy.

1. Configure Data Usage in Windows 11

Configuring data usage in Windows 11 can help you to fix Windows using so much data by setting a data limit to prevent it from using more data than you specify. This fix is beneficial if you have a limited data plan or want to save money on your internet bill. To configure data usage in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings, select Network & internet, and click Advanced network settings.
   
2. When the next window opens, click Data usage.
   
3. Then, select the network that you intend to set a data limit for and click the Enter limit button.
   
4. When the Set data limit window opens, select a Limit type.
5. If you choose Monthly, also set a desired Monthly reset date and a Data limit with the appropriate Unit.
6. Finally, click Save to confirm the changes.
   

2. Set Metered Connection

When you set a connection as metered, Windows will attempt to control and reduce data usage on that connection. A metered connection is a type of network connection that has a limited amount of data available. This can also help you save data if you are on a limited data plan. Here is how to do it:

1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings, select Network & internet, and click WiFi or Ethernet depending on your network..
   
2. Then, select your WiFi connection to access its properties.
   
3. Locate the Metered connection switch and turn it on.
   

3. Pause automatic updates

Knowing how to pause automatic updates will help you stop Windows 11 from using so much data. Use these steps to complete the setting:

1. Press the Windows and I keys to open Windows Settings and click Windows Updates.
2. Then, find Pause updates, open the drop-down menu, and select the pause duration for up to five weeks.
   
3. After making the selection, click on the pause option to activate pause.
   

4. Disable Startup on Apps

Disabling startup apps can help to reduce your Windows data usage. These apps can use a significant amount of data, especially if they are constantly syncing or updating. When you disable an app from starting up, it will be unable to run in the background and use data until you manually open it.

To disable startup apps in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Hit the ctrl + shift + esc keys at once to open the Task Manager and click on Startup apps.
   
2. Right-click on an app with a Status that is Enabled that you don’t want enabled at startup, then click on Disable.
   
3. Repeat step 2 for as many apps as you want.

5. Stop Automatic Windows 11 Updates in Services

Stopping automatic Windows 11 updates in Services helps to fix Windows using so much data by helping to control when and how updates are installed and saving bandwidth. Automatic updates can use a significant amount of bandwidth, especially if you are downloading large updates. Here is how to deactivate it:

1. Press Window + R to start the Run dialog box, enter services.msc in the text field, and hit Enter.
   
2. When the Services window opens, find and click the Windows Update option from the Services list.
   
3. On the General tab, click Stop, change the Startup type to Disabled, then click Apply and OK to apply settings.
   

In conclusion, if you find that your Windows 11 operating system is using so much data, several effective fixes can help you regain control over your data usage. Implementing these top fixes can alleviate the strain on your data plan and ensure a more efficient experience while using your PC.

Remember, monitoring your data usage, identifying data-hungry applications, optimizing system settings, and utilizing built-in Windows features can significantly reduce the amount of data consumed by your device. Stay proactive in managing your data usage to avoid unexpected bill shocks.