How to Disable Background Data for Specific Apps

Android Guides
,
1

Prevent apps from using data in the background to save battery and bandwidth.

Method 1: Disable Background Data in Android Settings

  1. Open Settings > Apps.

  2. Select the app you want to restrict.

  3. Go to Mobile Data & Wi-Fi.

  4. Toggle Background Data to Off.

Method 2: Use ADB to Block Background Data

If your phone doesn’t have an option to disable background data, use ADB:

Step 1: Find the App Package Name

adb shell pm list packages | grep appname

Example: package:com.facebook.katana

Step 2: Restrict Background Data

adb shell cmd netpolicy add restrict-background com.facebook.katana

Step 3: Verify the Setting

adb shell cmd netpolicy list restrict-background

This will show a list of apps with background data blocked.

Method 3: Use a Firewall App

Apps like NetGuard or AFWall+ can block background data without ADB.

Notes

  • Some apps may override this setting when opened. A firewall is the best solution for complete control.

  • If an app stops working, re-enable data using: adb shell cmd netpolicy remove restrict-background com.facebook.katana

I hope this helps!

1 Like