How to set a metered connection on a Mac

Updated October 23, 2026

Short answer

On a Mac, the equivalent of a metered connection is Low Data Mode. Open System Settings → Wi‑Fi, click Details next to the network and turn on Low Data Mode. macOS remembers it for that network.

If you’ve used Windows, you know “Set as metered connection”. macOS has the same idea, called Low Data Mode, and you turn it on per network.

Turn on Low Data Mode

Open System Settings → Wi‑Fi.
Click Details next to your hotspot or capped Wi‑Fi.
Turn on Low Data Mode and click OK.

Repeat this for every hotspot, MiFi or travel router you use. Your unlimited home Wi‑Fi can stay normal.

Low Data Mode not working?

Low Data Mode asks apps to hold back, but not every app listens. If your data still disappears:

Turn off automatic macOS and App Store update downloads.
Pause iCloud Photos and cloud drives (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive).
Check Activity Monitor → Network for the app that’s still downloading.
Use TripMode if you want to block specific apps completely.

Know your numbers

Byter shows how much you’ve used on each network, so you can confirm Low Data Mode is actually saving data. Byter also sends a heads-up when your usage is unusually high, plus daily, weekly and monthly summaries.

Questions

Does Mac have a metered connection setting?

Yes, it’s called Low Data Mode, found in System Settings → Wi‑Fi → Details for each network.

Does Low Data Mode stop all background data?

No. It reduces background activity, but some apps still use data. Pause updates and sync too, and track usage with Byter.