I recently checked my data usage on Windows 11 and was really surprised to find that the "System and Windows Update" section consumed about 42.85 GB in just one day. What's strange is that I didn't notice any ongoing updates in the Windows Update section, and my computer was mainly used for browsing and playing some games like CS2. Can anyone explain what might be causing this excessive data usage?
3 Answers
It sounds like you might be experiencing Windows Delivery Optimization. This feature allows your PC to download updates not only from Microsoft but also from other PCs on your local network or even outside of it, depending on your settings. If you haven't set it up to share updates, then you shouldn't have excessive data usage from external sources. It can be confusing since Microsoft doesn't explain it well. Just check your Delivery Optimization settings and make sure they’re configured the way you want them!
If you’re still having issues, take a look at the Delivery Optimization help page from Microsoft, it might clear things up.
I noticed something similar! Even when I turned off Windows Update on my 128GB SSD, some updates still downloaded automatically. I recommend running Disk Cleanup occasionally; it helps get rid of unnecessary files like older update files and cache. You'll free up some space and maybe reduce data usage.
Definitely! I also have a small SSD, and running Disk Cleanup made a big difference for me.
Could be the Delivery Optimization feature doing uploads to other devices on your network. Just a heads up, apps or games from the Store might count towards that data usage too. If it’s not a big issue, you may not need to change much, just keep an eye on those settings!
That’s true! I didn’t realize updates could also pull from other devices—I'll check my settings.
I turned off Delivery Optimization based on Microsoft Support's advice. Just to be safe!
Thanks for the explanation! I wasn't aware other systems could pull updates from mine.