Setting Data Usage Limits

Written by Eric Wyatt (last updated July 8, 2019)

Previously, we talked about how to monitor your computer's data usage, and we discussed how you can look at the data usage for your various apps. If you have a metered Internet connection and need to limit the amount of data used, this can be a helpful resource. Along with monitoring your data usage, Windows 10 also allows you to set data limits.

To set data limits for your Windows 10 computer, follow these simple steps:

  1. Press the Windows key and type (without quotes) "Data Usage Overview," then press Enter. This opens the Data Usage tab of the Settings window. (See Figure 1.)

    2. Figure 1. The Data Usage tab of the Settings window.

  2. Click the Set Limits button in the Data Limit section. This will bring up the Set Data Limit pop-up window.
  3. Using the controls provided, set the desired limits you would like to implement for your system.
  4. Click Save. The Set Data Limit pop-up window is closed, and your changes take effect immediately.

If you approach your data limit, Windows lets you know with a notification. (See Figure 2.)

Figure 2. A Data Usage notification.

It is important to note that if you reach your data limit, Windows will warn you, but it will not disable the Internet. (This means you may incur fees from your Internet provider for going over the limit.) Also, it is important to realize that the data usage amounts may vary from your ISP's readings, as they might record data readings differently.

With Data Usage limits and monitoring, you are better able to understand how your computer is using your data. As well, you'll be notified when you've reached the data usage limits which can help keep your data usage in line.

 This tip (1399) applies to Windows 10.

Author Bio

Eric Wyatt

Eric Wyatt is a swell guy (or so his friends tell him). He is a formally trained designer and branding expert, bringing a wide range of skills to his Tips.Net articles. ...

MORE FROM ERIC

Configuring Windows' Secret Start Menu

You can quickly access either Command Prompt or PowerShell by using the Win+X shortcut key command. But which one is ...

Discover More

Create a Desktop Shortcut that Opens the Favorites Folder

Shortcuts save time and quickly open an item, thereby reducing mouse clicks. Create a shortcut to quickly open the ...

Discover More

Completely Delete Files with Cipher

When you delete a file in Windows, the operating system only removes the file from view. The deleted content can still be ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

DesktopOK

Are you frustrated by your desktop icons moving around whenever you change your screen resolution or use Remote Desktop? ...

Discover More

M8 Free Clipboard

If you've ever found it tedious to do copy/paste with one piece of information at a time, you'll really like M8 Free ...

Discover More

SyncToy

SyncToy allows you to keep multiple pairs of folders in sync. This means it can also serve as a decent file-backup ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 7 + 9?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)

Newest Tips
Links and Sharing
OUR COMPANY
OUR PRODUCTS
OUR SITES
 

Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.