How to stop apps from using data on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To stop apps from using data on Android, you can restrict background data usage through settings, disable data for specific apps, or use data-saving modes. This helps manage your data consumption effectively and can prevent unexpected charges.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
  • •Sufficient battery life to complete the process.
  • •Access to device settings and permissions.
  • •Backup important data if necessary, as changes may affect app performance.

Method 1: Restrict Background Data Usage

This method is useful when you want to limit data usage for specific apps while allowing others to function normally.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your Android device. This can usually be found in your app drawer or by swiping down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Network & internet' or 'Connections' depending on your Android version.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Mobile network' or 'Data usage'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'App data usage' to see a list of apps and their data consumption.
  • •Step 5: Select the app you want to restrict. You will see options for 'Background data'.
  • •Step 6: Toggle the 'Background data' switch off to prevent the app from using data in the background.
  • •Step 7: To verify, return to the 'App data usage' page and check that the background data toggle for the selected app is off.
  • •Step 8: If it doesn't work, ensure that the app is not set to use data in other settings or check for any data-saving modes that might override this setting.

For Android 11 and 12

Android 11 and 12 have a slightly different interface but follow similar steps.
  • •In 'Settings', go to 'Network & internet', then 'Mobile network'.
  • •Tap on 'Data usage', then 'Mobile data usage'.
  • •Select the app and toggle 'Background data' off.

For Android 10 and below

Older versions may have different paths but the concept remains the same.
  • •Open 'Settings', then 'Data usage'.
  • •Select 'Mobile data usage' and choose the app.
  • •Toggle 'Restrict background data' to off.

Method 2: Disable Data for Specific Apps

Use this method when you want to completely prevent an app from using mobile data.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings' and tap on 'Apps' or 'Applications'.
  • •Step 2: Find and select the app you wish to restrict.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Mobile data' or 'Data usage'.
  • •Step 4: Toggle off 'Allow background data usage' and 'Allow app while Data saver on'.
  • •Step 5: To verify, check that both toggles are off.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure there are no overriding settings in the 'Data saver' mode.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to stop apps from using data, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Settings not responding' - Solution: Restart your device and try again.
  • •Issue: App still using data after restrictions - Fix: Clear app cache by going to 'Settings' > 'Apps' > [App Name] > 'Storage' > 'Clear Cache'.
  • •Problem: Unable to find app in settings - Workaround: Use the search function in settings to locate the app directly.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to optimize their data usage further:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: No specific shortcuts, but using 'Quick Settings' (swipe down) can quickly toggle data saver.
  • •Command line: Not applicable for Android, but using ADB commands can help for advanced users.
  • •Hidden feature: Data Saver mode can be accessed in 'Settings' > 'Network & internet' > 'Data Saver' to restrict data usage across all apps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To effectively manage data usage, regularly review app permissions and settings.