Windows 10: DataSense helps to control data usage on metered connections

Windows 10 DataSense

As we move into an always connected world, internet connection seems to continue to be a problem, and it’s becoming more frequent to see metered connections to access web limiting users to how much data they can access. But accessing web and download content is about to become easier on capped connections, thanks to DataSense feature that Microsoft is introducing in Windows 10 Technical Preview build 9860.

DataSense isn’t fully implemented on build 9860, but users can already go to PC settings and access the new feature. While in DataSense users will be presented with three different sections: Overview, Usage, and Settings.

The Overview shows small details of data usage in different type of networks: Wi-Fi and Cellular.

DataSense Overview

While Usage at this point shows the same details from Overview, but it adds information on System Services data usage. But again DataSense isn’t fully implemented, so we’re expecting more changes in the coming builds.

DataSense Usage

Here in Usage will likely be the section to look for which apps are using the most data, very similar to the information we can see today in Windows 8.1 Task Manger’s App History. The idea is simple, you can identify which app is impacting your data allowance on a metered network, therefore you can make smarter decisions on what apps you can use while in a capped connection.

At the end we have the Settings section that show several settings you can switch on and off: “Restrict background data”, “Restrict background data when roaming”, and “Show total data usage for device”.

DataSense Settings

Keep in mind that in Windows 10 build 9860, DataSense appear in PC settings, you can navigate the options, but the feature isn’t working.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me.