A metered connection is a type of internet or network connection where data usage is tracked and often limited. It's commonly used for connections that have a data cap or are billed based on the amount of data used, such as mobile hotspots, cellular data, or some broadband plans.
When a connection is set as metered, the device or operating system may limit background data usage, delay automatic updates, and reduce overall data consumption to help the user stay within their data limit and avoid extra charges. This feature is especially useful for users with limited or costly data plans.
How it functions?
A metered connection functions by actively monitoring and controlling the amount of data that is being used on a network. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Identification of the Connection:
- The operating system identifies the type of network connection (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular) and whether it is set as metered or unmetered.
- On devices like Windows and Android, users can manually set a connection as metered. Some connections, like cellular data, are often set as metered by default.
2. Data Usage Tracking:
- The device keeps track of how much data has been consumed over that connection. This includes both foreground (active use by apps and users) and background data (updates, syncing, etc.).
3. Limiting Background Data:
- When a connection is set as metered, the operating system restricts background data usage. This means that apps and services may not update or sync as frequently to save data.
- Features like automatic software updates, cloud backups, and large file downloads may be paused or limited until the device is connected to an unmetered network.
4. User Alerts:
- Users may receive alerts when they approach their data limit. This helps prevent overage charges on data plans that are billed based on usage.
5. Prioritising Essential Tasks:
- Some essential services, such as antivirus updates or critical system patches, may still be allowed, but non-essential tasks are deferred.
6. Manual Control:
- Users can manually manage which apps can use background data on a metered connection, giving them more control over their data consumption.
Overall, the goal of a metered connection is to prevent unexpected data usage and charges by giving the user and the operating system better control over data consumption.