Use Windows 10 Metered Connection to Stop Some Automatic Updates

While most folks didn’t have a problem updating to the current version of Windows 10 (Windows 10 Fall Creators Update – Version 1709, as of this writing) some folks did have problems. And after a couple of failed attempts, they find that Microsoft repeatedly tries to install the failed up update. This is not only annoying, but it takes a lot of time.

We have advised people who had trouble updating to Windows 10 version 1709 (Fall Creators Update) – even those who tried updated by using the Update assistant or installation media – to wait until the next update coming sometime this spring.

This article will show you how to set a Metered connection to stop Microsoft from repeatedly trying to automatically update your computer while allowing critical security updates to install automatically (Windows 10 Fall Creators Update v1709 & Windows 10 Creators Update v 1703)

The purpose of a Metered connnection according to Microsoft is for those who have bandwidth limits or limit the amount of data you can use. However, you may also want to use Metered connection to prevent Windows from downloading large updates or to prevent version updates that have already failed to install from continually trying to reinstall.

On the Creators Update and newer (including Fall Creators Update), Microsoft has changed Metered connection so Windows Update is allowed to download critical security updates automatically. Microsoft has said they will not abuse this. So, turning on Metered connection should allow you to receive all critical security updates that help keep your Windows 10 PC up-to-date and safe.

When you turn Metered connection on:

1. You will only receive critical security updates automatically. You will not receive Windows version updates (like Fall Creators Update). Or cumulative updates. You can install Cumulative updates by downloading them from the Windows Update History page.

2. Windows stores apps and apps included with Windows 10 will no longer update automatically. However desktop programs you installed, such as Firefox, Chrome, and others will continue to update as they always have.

3. Microsoft says that live tiles on your Start menu and/or Start screen “may” stop updating on a metered connection.

4. “Some” Windows Store apps “may” function differently or with limited functionaity.

If you’re having problems with Windows Update trying to continually install a new version update or you’re on a connection where you have data limits, here’s how to turn on Metered connection.

For Wi-Fi

Open Settings (Windows key + i) or open Settings from the start menu or the Windows key + x menu.

In Settings, click on Network & Internet.  On the Status page, under your “Network status”, click on “Change connection properties”.

If you don’t see “Change connection properties” click on “Wi-Fi” on the left side, then click on your active connection. See screenshot below.

You’ll see your network name at the top. Further down on the page you’ll see “Metered connection”

Under “Metered connection” you will an on/off switch under “Set as metered connection”. Turn the switch under “Set as metered connection” to “On”.

Ethernet (Wired) Connections

If you’re using an Ethernet connection, open “Settings”. In “Settings” click on “Network & Internet”, then click on Ethernet on the left side.

Added: Reader David B. pointed out to us, that after you click Ethernet you’ll need to click on your connection.

Under “Metered connections” “Set as metered connection” turn the switch to “On”.

Whether you’re on a Wi-Fi connection or Ethernet, should you ever want to go back to a non-metered connection, follow the steps above only this time turn the switch to “Off”.