Starting with Windows 10 Creators Update, it is possible to set Ethernet connection as metered. This ability was restricted to mobile networks and Wi-Fi in previous releases of Windows 10. Let's see how it can be done.
To set Ethernet connection as metered in Windows 10 Creators Update, do the following.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network and Internet - Ethernet.
- Click the Network icon on the right.
- On the next page, enable the option Set as metered connection under "Metered connection".
You are done. The Ethernet connection will be set as metered.
If you set your Ethernet connection as metered, Windows 10 will reduce the amount of data you send and receive through it. The operating system turns off unnecessary transfers while on a metered connection and tries to conserve bandwidth.
Keep in mind that Windows 10 does not download updates over a metered connection. The same is true for Windows Store apps - they won't receive updates if you set a connection as metered.
In Windows 10 versions released prior to Windows 10 Creators Update, you can set an Ethernet connection as metered with a Registry tweak or using Winaero Tweaker. See the following article: Set Ethernet connection as metered in Windows 10.
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Does this apply to windows HOME also? Thanks
Yep, this works in Windows 10 Home too.
I have four computers I use. One Win10Pro, two Win10Home, and one Win10Ent. None have the option for a metered connection switch anywhere I can find. Either for Wi-Fi or ethernet. All are on version 1607 14393.576, Can you point me in the right direction? I would like to know if MS removed this option, or just moved it from where this article is showing. Thank you.
Just to add I know for ethernet connections it’s in the Creator’s update, but like I said I don’t even have it for Wi-Fi under the current release build.
The WiFi item is supposed to be under Settings – Network and Internet – Wi-Fi.
If you have a Wi-Fi adapter in your device and the item is not visible, try to install or update its drivers.
I suggest you to download and install the latest version of drivers available on the hardware vendor’s web site.
Thanks. I actually found it. On this build you have to go into each Wi-Fi properties you have a Wi-Fi access saved as. Then the option is there. All good now. I appreciate your help, and articles!
Thank you very much for kind words. Happy to be of help.
The key line is Windows 10 “Creators Update”. The option described in the article is available in build 15002 and above.
For the current release you mentioned, please refer to the following article: [Registry tweak] Set Ethernet connection as metered in Windows 10
Some apps like Outlook whine with a notice on a metered connection.