Allow Windows Updates to be downloaded automatically over Metered Connections

Windows users can now control data usage by configuring a wired network connection as ‘metered.’ This has come handy to people who are on a limited data plan. One of the cons of this feature is that it prevents updates or apps from downloading or installing. Auto upgrades are also affected. This can make your system vulnerable and might also affect your speed. Windows 10 now allows Windows Updates to be downloaded automatically over Metered Connections via Windows Settings, Group Policy or Registry. Let us see how to do it.

Allow Updates to be downloaded automatically over Metered Connections

1] Via Windows Settings

Open WinX Menu and select Settings.

In Settings, you need to navigate to Update & Security and then go to Windows Update, and under that menu, click Advanced options.

Next, you need to go to the Advanced options menu. In the next window, you need to, select Enabling this policy will automatically download updates, even over metered connections (charges may apply) option.

Restart your system.

2] Using Registry Editor

Press Win + R and type regedit in the Run dialog box. This will open the Registry Editor.

Navigate to the following registry key:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\UX\Settings

In the right pane, locate AllowAutoWindowsUpdateDownloadOverMeteredNetwork and set its value to 1.

Reboot to let the changes come into effect.

3] Using Group Policy Editor

If you need to make these changes to company managed systems, it would be better to use the Group Policy Editor. Here’s the procedure for the same:

Run gpedit.msc and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.

Navigate to the following setting:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update

On the list of policies on the right-hand side, double-click on “Allow updates to be downloaded automatically over metered connections.”

Enabling this policy will automatically download updates, even over metered data connections (charges may apply)

Select Enabled and click on Apply and the OK button.

Hope this helps!