Do you want to find out which apps are consuming your internet bandwidth? Whether you’re dealing with limited data, slow connections, or suspicious background usage, Windows 11 offers several ways to monitor network activity. In this guide, we’ll cover four effective methods to check which apps are using the internet—plus tips to control data usage.
1. Monitor Real-Time Usage via Task Manager
Task Manager is the fastest way to view which apps are currently using your network:
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Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager, or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
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Ensure More details is enabled.
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Navigate to the Processes tab and click the Network column header.
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Apps will appear sorted by network usage—showing real-time Upload and Download activity.
✅ Why this works: Easily identify bandwidth hogs in real time and end unwanted processes immediately.
2. Get In-Depth Network Stats with Resource Monitor
For advanced network monitoring:
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Search for Resource Monitor and open it.
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Click the Network tab.
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Under Processes with Network Activity, you’ll see all apps using your network along with Send, Receive, and Total data usage.
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View TCP Connections and Listening Ports for deeper analysis.
✅ Why use it: Offers detailed real-time metrics—perfect for diagnosing slow internet or malware.
3. View Total App Data in Settings (Monthly Summary)
Windows 11 tracks data usage over time:
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Go to Settings → Network & internet → Data usage.
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Choose the connected network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
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Select the time span (last 24 hours, 7 days, or 30 days).
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View Usage statistics, listing apps with their total data consumption.
✅ Why this matters: See historical bandwidth use and detect which apps consume data most. WiseCleaner+6TechViral+6Windows 11 Forum+6WiseCleanerGlassWire
4. Use Third-Party Tools for Advanced Monitoring
While built-in tools are useful, third-party apps like GlassWire or Wise System Monitor offer enhanced insights:
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GlassWire displays data by app, connection type, IP, and time—in real time and historically YouTube+6GlassWire+6WiseCleaner+6.
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Wise System Monitor adds floating widgets for live upload and download speeds per process .
These tools are ideal for tech-savvy users needing granular visibility or firewall controls.
Bonus: Limit or Block Internet Usage
Once you identify bandwidth-heavy apps, you can take action:
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In Task Manager or Resource Monitor, right-click and End task to stop unwanted traffic.
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Use Windows Settings to set a data limit or mark your connection as Metered:
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Go to Settings → Network & internet → Data usage → Enter limit.
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For strict control, go to Windows Firewall (Advanced) and create an Outbound Rule to block specific app executables WiseCleanerMicrosoft Learn.
Quick Comparison
| Method | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Task Manager | Real-time snapshot | Quickly spotting active apps |
| Resource Monitor | Detailed live stats | Deep troubleshooting |
| Settings → Data usage | Historical summary | Monthly usage tracking |
| Third-party tools | Comprehensive logs | Power users & monitoring history |
Final Takeaways
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For quick checks, Task Manager reveals live network activity.
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For in-depth analysis, Resource Monitor shows process-specific uploads/downloads.
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To track long-term usage, Settings → Data usage provides clear summaries.
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For total control, consider third-party tools or setting data caps and firewall rules.
Understanding how apps use your data empowers you to optimize performance, save bandwidth, and protect your privacy. Want to add visuals, code snippets, or a user-friendly widget? Just let me know!