Downloads stop when a Windows 11 PC goes to sleep, because the network connection and apps pause. To keep downloading, stop the PC sleeping while the download runs: open Settings > System > Power & battery (or Power) and set When plugged in, put my device to sleep after to Never. You can let the screen turn off; that doesn’t stop downloads. Change the setting back afterwards to save power.
Quick Answer
Settings > System > Power & battery > sleep when plugged in: Never. Screen off is fine.
Steps to Keep Downloads Running
- Plug the PC into power.
- Open Settings > System > Power & battery.
- Expand Screen, sleep & hibernate timeouts.
- Set When plugged in, put my device to sleep after to Never.
- On a laptop, also set what closing the lid does to Do nothing (Control Panel > Power Options) if you’ll close it.
What Keeps Downloads Going
| Setting | Effect on downloads |
|---|---|
| Screen turns off | Downloads continue |
| Sleep | Downloads pause |
| Hibernate or shut down | Downloads stop |
| Lid closed (default) | Usually sleeps; change the lid action |
| Power mode Best power efficiency | Can slow background downloads |
Troubleshooting
- Still stops: Some apps pause when minimised; check the app’s own settings.
- Adjust timings: See changing sleep time on Windows 11.
- Turn sleep off completely: See turning off sleep mode.
- All power options: See power and sleep settings in Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do downloads continue with the screen locked?
Yes, as long as the PC doesn’t sleep.
Will Windows updates download during sleep?
Some modern PCs support network activity in standby, but ordinary downloads usually pause.
Is it bad to never sleep?
It uses more power; switch sleep back on when the download finishes.
Summary
- Plug in the PC.
- Set sleep to Never when plugged in.
- Let the screen turn off if you like.
- Restore sleep afterwards.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.