How to prevent Windows from automatically updating offline maps

Whenever Windows detects that your PC is connected to the internet, it automatically updates the maps you downloaded offline. This is a default feature, but you can completely disable it to avoid consuming storage space on your computer.

Set to stop automatically updating offline maps on Windows

If you don't know, the built-in maps application in Windows is powered by Microsoft Bing Maps, and is used to quickly refer to directions to a specific place when needed. Microsoft Bing Maps lets you save your favorite places like home or work and create a collection of the places you want to remember for offline use when there's no internet connection. However, if you don't find this automatic map update feature useful, it can be turned off with just a few simple taps. Here's how to do it!

Step 1: Click the Windows button on the Taskbar to view frequently used applications. Select Settings (gear icon). Alternatively, you can also click the search button, type Settings and click on the corresponding return result.

Step 2: When the Settings window opens, scroll down to the Apps section in the left panel and select it.

How to prevent Windows from automatically updating offline maps Picture 1

Step 3: Look to the right and expand Offline Maps. This is where you can find options related to download management, storage locations, and map updates.

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Step 4: Click the drop-down button next to Map updates.

Update offline maps on Windows Uncheck the option Update automatically when plugged in and on Wi-Fi.

Close the Settings window and everything is done. Restart your browser to allow the changes to take effect. Windows will no longer automatically update offline maps. Hope you are succesful.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 27 June 2023