When setting up or updating software on Windows, encountering an error message like “Setup incomplete because of a metered connection” can be frustrating. This issue typically arises when your internet connection is designated as metered, meaning there are data usage limits or charges applied. This article aims to guide you through understanding the error, reasons behind it, and steps to resolve it effectively.
Understanding Metered Connections
In Windows, a metered connection is a network connection where data usage is monitored by the service provider, and additional charges may apply if you exceed a specified data limit. Common examples include mobile broadband connections or Wi-Fi networks set to metered status to control data usage.
Reasons for “Setup Incomplete Because of a Metered Connection” Error
When you attempt to download or update software on a metered connection, Windows may prevent the process to avoid unexpected data charges or excessive usage. This precautionary measure helps users manage their data usage effectively and avoid potential financial implications.
Steps to Resolve the Error
If you encounter the “Setup incomplete because of a metered connection” error, follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
- Check Metered Connection Settings:
- Step 1: Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I, then go to Network & Internet.
- Step 2: Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet (depending on your connection type).
- Step 3: Click on your connected network and verify if it’s set as a metered connection. If it is, Windows restricts some downloads and updates to prevent excessive data usage.
- Change Metered Connection Settings:
- Step 1: From the network settings page, click on your connected network.
- Step 2: Under Metered connection, toggle the switch to Off to designate it as an unmetered connection. This allows Windows to download updates and software without restrictions.
- Use Alternative Network:
- If changing your current connection to unmetered isn’t possible (e.g., using a mobile hotspot), consider switching to a different network with an unmetered status, such as a standard Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.
- Modify Delivery Optimization Settings:
- Step 1: Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
- Step 2: Click on Delivery Optimization under Windows Update.
- Step 3: Adjust settings to allow downloads from other PCs on the internet or local network, which may help bypass metered connection restrictions.
- Temporarily Disable Metered Connection Restrictions:
- Step 1: Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Step 2: Click on Advanced options.
- Step 3: Disable the option Download updates over metered connections (charges may apply) temporarily. Remember to enable it back after completing the setup or update.
- Restart the Installation Process:
- After making changes to your connection settings or Windows Update preferences, restart the setup or update process to see if the error persists. Ensure you have a stable internet connection throughout.
Why Manage Metered Connections?
- Cost Control: Metered connections help users control data costs, especially in environments where data usage fees are based on usage volume.
- Data Conservation: By limiting background data downloads and updates, metered connections conserve data allowances, ensuring essential tasks can still be performed without exceeding limits.
- Compliance: Some internet service providers (ISPs) impose metered connections to comply with regulatory requirements or manage network congestion effectively.
Encountering “Setup incomplete because of a metered connection” can disrupt software installations or updates on Windows, particularly when using restricted internet connections. By understanding the nature of metered connections and following the steps outlined above to adjust settings or switch networks, users can resolve this error effectively. Managing metered connections helps maintain control over data usage, ensures efficient software operations, and minimizes potential costs associated with excessive data consumption. Implement these troubleshooting steps to overcome the error and continue with uninterrupted software setup or updates on your Windows device.