How to Clear or Reset Data Usage in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Monitoring network data usage is essential—especially when you’re on a limited internet plan. Windows 11 includes a built-in feature that tracks how much data your PC uses over time, typically within the last 30 days. But what if the counters are inaccurate, stuck, or you want to start from scratch after changing plans? In such cases, resetting the data usage statistics is the right move.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn several ways to reset or clear network data usage in Windows 11 using the Settings app, Command Prompt, and even a custom batch file. We’ll also troubleshoot common issues like missing data counters and show you how to manage data limits effectively.

🔧 Method 1: Reset Data Usage via Windows 11 Settings

This is the easiest and most user-friendly method, ideal for most users.

Steps:

1- Open Settings
Press Win + I to open the Windows Settings app instantly.

2- Navigate to Network Settings
Click “Network & internet” on the left sidebar.

3- Select Data Usage
On the right pane, click “Data usage”. You’ll see a summary of your data consumption by apps and by network (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, etc.).

4- Choose the Correct Network Adapter
Use the dropdown menu in the top-right corner to switch between different network interfaces (e.g., Wi-Fi, Ethernet).

5- Click Reset Usage Stats
Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the “Reset” button. Confirm when prompted.

6- Repeat for Other Adapters
You must reset each adapter (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Cellular) individually if needed.

⚙️ Method 2: Reset Data Usage for All Networks via Command Prompt

Advanced users or IT admins may prefer resetting all network data at once through the Command Prompt.

Steps:

1- Run Command Prompt as Admin
Right-click the Start button and choose Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).

2- Enter the Reset Command:net stop DPS & DEL /F /S /Q /A "%windir%\System32\sru\*" & net start DPS

This command stops the Diagnostic Policy Service, deletes usage logs, then restarts the service.

3- Wait for Completion
Once the process finishes, all network data counters are reset system-wide.

⚠️ Note: This method resets data usage for all users and network adapters on the PC. It doesn’t affect your personal files or system settings.

⚡ Method 3: Use a Batch File to Automate Data Usage Reset

Prefer a one-click solution? Automate the command with a batch script.

Steps:

1- Create or Download a Batch File Open Notepad and paste the following code: powershell -windowstyle hidden -command "Start-Process cmd -ArgumentList '/s,/c,net stop DPS > NUL 2>&1 & DEL /F /S /Q /A \"%windir%\System32\sru\*\" & net start DPS > NUL 2>&1' -Verb runAs"

2- Save and Run as Admin Save the file with a .bat extension (e.g., reset_data_usage.bat).

• Right-click it and choose “Run as administrator.”

3- Optional: Make It Run Silently You can use Task Scheduler to run the batch file at startup or during specific events with no visible prompts.

🛠️ Troubleshooting: Data Usage Counters Missing or Blank

If your Data Usage page shows no stats, try the following:

Step 1: Check Diagnostic Policy Service

• Open Services (search for “services” in Start).
• Find Diagnostic Policy Service.
• Double-click it, set the Startup type to Manual or Automatic, then click Start.

Step 2: Run System File Checker and DISM

Open Command Prompt as Admin and run these two commands:

sfc /scannow

After completion:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These tools repair corrupted system files that may prevent data tracking.

Step 3: Restore the Settings App (if missing)

If the Settings app itself is broken or missing:

Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers Windows.immersivecontrolpanel | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

Step 4: Create a New User Account

If all else fails, create a new local user account or perform a full Windows Reset to restore default system behavior.

📊 Bonus: Set or Remove Data Usage Limits in Windows 11

Setting a data cap helps prevent overages if you’re on a metered connection.

Steps to Set or Edit a Data Limit:

1- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage

2- Click “Enter limit” or “Edit limit”

3- Choose:

• Limit type (Monthly, One-time, Unlimited)
• Data cap (e.g., 50GB)
• Reset cycle (e.g., every 30 days)

4- Click Save

To Remove a Data Cap:

• On the same screen, click “Remove limit” and confirm.

Windows will now notify you as you approach your cap and can restrict background activity if on a metered connection.

✅ Conclusion: Take Control of Your Data Usage in Windows 11

Whether you’re looking to reset inaccurate network usage stats, start fresh after switching plans, or automate the process entirely, Windows 11 gives you the tools to manage it efficiently. From built-in settings to command-line and batch solutions, you can choose the method that suits your needs and skill level.

Maintaining accurate usage stats not only helps you avoid unexpected charges but also improves your overall understanding of how your PC consumes bandwidth. Stay informed, stay in control.