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To stop Windows from downloading update and app files from other PCs—or sending parts of those downloads to them—turn off Delivery Optimization’s peer-sharing option. Windows 11 and Windows 10 use different Settings paths, but turning the option off does not disable updates: Windows Update and Microsoft Store continue downloading directly from Microsoft.
Turn off Windows P2P sharing
Delivery Optimization is the Windows feature that can use other PCs to download parts of Windows updates, Store apps, and other Microsoft content. Depending on the sharing setting, your PC may also upload parts of downloads to other PCs. Turn off the main sharing option to stop transfers with other PCs.
Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings.
- Go to Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization.
- Set Allow downloads from other devices to Off.
This prevents downloads from and uploads to other PCs. Windows updates and Microsoft Store apps still download directly from Microsoft. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
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Windows 10
- Open Start > Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Delivery Optimization.
- Set Allow downloads from other PCs to Off.
Updates and Store apps will continue to arrive directly from Microsoft. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025; this setting changes peer delivery, not the operating system’s support status. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
#1 Best Overall
- Model: Dell OptiPlex 7050 Small Form Factor (SFF)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-7700 3.60 GHz
- Memory: 32GB DDR4 Ram
- Storage: 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD) Fast Boot + Storage
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro (64-bit)
If you do not see the page at the listed path, search Settings for Delivery Optimization. Labels and navigation can vary between Windows builds.
Choose local sharing or no PC sharing
If you want to avoid sharing over the internet but still allow PCs on your local network to exchange download parts, choose Devices on my local network on Windows 11. This limits peer sharing to the local network; it does not turn peer sharing off completely. To stop both local and internet peer transfers, turn the main Allow downloads from other devices option off. Windows 10 offers a similar local-network-only choice. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
Rank #2
- [INTEL POWERED CONTENT] - Built with a 8th Generation Hexa-Core Intel i5 and 32GB of DDR4 RAM; Modern, Windows 11 ready, with 4K support, Executive multitasking, media streaming and smooth, multi-tab web browsing; Perfect as an all-purpose multimedia computer; built for content creators; Plenty of RAM and Mass storage for photo and video editing powered by Intel HD 630
- [LATEST WIRELESS TECH] - This Dell Desktop Computer easily connects to the internet through the Built In WiFi / Bluetooth
- [SOLID STATE STORAGE] - This Dell Computer setup comes with an ultra-fast 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD); Setup as the primary boot device; Boot and load programs with lightning speed ; Additional expansion available
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- [MODERN HI-SPEED PORTS] - USB 3.0 (x4) | USB 2.0 (x4) | DisplayPort (x1) | HDMI Port (x1) | Audio Combo Jack (x1) | Audio Out (x1) | RJ-45 Ethernet (x1) | Internal SATA (x3)
| Choice | What it does |
|---|---|
| Devices on my local network | Allows peer transfers within the local network, but not with internet peers. |
| Allow downloads from other devices: Off | Stops peer transfers with other PCs; Windows obtains updates and apps directly from Microsoft. |
Manage data use without disabling peer sharing
Delivery Optimization also provides download and upload bandwidth controls, a monthly upload limit, and Activity Monitor. Use these controls if you want to inspect or limit network impact while leaving peer sharing enabled. Microsoft notes that bandwidth limits apply to automatic update downloads, not manually initiated downloads such as a user-started Windows update or Store app download. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
A metered connection is another option when a particular Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection has a data cap. Microsoft says a metered connection prevents Delivery Optimization from automatically sending or downloading parts of updates or apps to other PCs on the internet. It applies to that network connection rather than disabling peer sharing everywhere; Windows may also restrict some background updates and app syncing on a metered network. (Microsoft Support: Metered connections in Windows)
Rank #3
- Intel Core i3-8100T 3.10 GHz 6MB Cache 4C/4T processor provides reliable performance and efficiency
- 16GB DDR4 memory; 256GB M.2 NVMe SSD
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 for enhanced viewing and sharp details
- Windows 11 Pro OS is so familiar and easy to use, you’ll feel like an expert. It starts up and resumes fast, has more built-in security to help keep you safe, and comes with great built-in apps
- I/O Ports: 2 x USB-A 2.0 4 x USB-A 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Headphone/Microphone Input/Output 1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Line Output 1 x RJ45 (Gigabit) 1 x DisplayPort 1.2 1 x HDMI 1.4
If the sharing switch is grayed out
A notice that settings are managed by your organization, or a disabled sharing control, can mean an IT administrator has set a policy requiring Delivery Optimization. Contact your organization’s IT support instead of trying to override its policy. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What Delivery Optimization can access
Microsoft says Delivery Optimization cannot be used to download or send personal content and does not access personal files or folders. Downloads from other PCs use the same security measures as downloads from Windows Update and Microsoft Store: Microsoft verifies downloaded parts and checks downloads again before installation. (Microsoft Support: Delivery Optimization in Windows)
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Powerful 8th Generation Processor - The Dell OptiPlex 7060 desktop computer is powered by an Intel 6-core 8th Generation i7-8700 processor, which can reach up to 4.60 Ghz, enabling efficient multitasking.
- Microsoft Windows 11 Pro – This Dell small form factor desktop computer comes pre-installed with the Windows 11 Professional operating system. Microsoft has reimagined how the PC should work for you and alongside you, and this Windows 11-powered desktop is redefining productivity.
- Smooth Multitasking – The Dell OptiPlex is equipped with a blazing-fast new 512GB M.2 NVMe solid-state drive (SSD), which stores important files and applications while supporting faster boot speeds and higher data transfer rates.
- High-Performance Office Desktop – This business desktop computer serves as a reliable workstation, suitable for both home and business computing. The spacious desktop tower case allows for future expansion, making it an excellent fit for use as an office PC.
- Rich Ports – This Dell OptiPlex computer is equipped with 5 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, and 2 DisplayPort ports, supporting dual-monitor connections. Additionally, a wireless keyboard and mouse are included.
Rank #4
- Dell OptiPlex 3040 Small Form Factor Desktop PC, Intel Core i3-6100 up to 3.7GHz, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, WIFI
- Ports: 8 External USB: 4 x 3.0 (2 front/2 rear) and 4 x 2.0 (2 front/2 rear); 1 RJ-45; 1 Serial (optional); 1 Display Port 1.2; 1 HDMI 1.4; 2 PS/2 (optional); 1 UAJ, 1 Line-out; 1 VGA (optional)
- Included in the box: Computer; Power Cord; USB Keyboard; USB Mouse; WiFi Adaptor
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro 64 Bit – Multi-language supports English/Spanish/French.
- Support 4K (3840x2160) display, high quality image quality gives you the best visual enjoyment.
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