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All Tricks to Disable Automatic Updates in Windows 10 or 11
Automatic updates in Windows 10 and Windows 11 are designed to keep your system secure and up-to-date. However, not every user wants updates to install automatically. Sometimes updates cause system slowdowns, change settings, or even introduce bugs. If you prefer more control over your system, you can disable automatic updates in several safe and effective ways.
This comprehensive guide explains all tricks to disable automatic updates in Windows 10 and Windows 11, from system settings to advanced registry and group policy tweaks.
Why Disable Automatic Updates?
Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand why users often turn off automatic updates:
- Avoid unexpected restarts during important work.
- Prevent bandwidth usage from large background downloads.
- Stop buggy updates that break system performance.
- Control when and which updates are installed.
- Maintain compatibility with older software or drivers.
While updates are crucial for security, you can choose to manage them manually and still keep your system safe.
1. Pause Updates Temporarily (Official Method)
This is the simplest and safest way to stop updates without permanently disabling them.
Steps for Windows 10:
- Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Pause updates for 7 days.
- To extend the pause, click again or choose Advanced options → Pause until (up to 35 days).
Steps for Windows 11:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update.
- Under More options, click the dropdown next to Pause updates.
- Choose how long to pause (up to 5 weeks).
Note: After the pause period ends, you’ll need to install updates before pausing again.
2. Set a Metered Connection
A metered connection limits data usage, and Windows treats it as a restricted network — meaning automatic updates won’t download large files.
Steps:
- Open Settings → Network & Internet.
- Choose Wi-Fi or Ethernet (depending on your connection).
- Click your connected network.
- Turn on Set as metered connection.
Now Windows won’t download updates automatically over that connection.
Advantages:
- Works well for limited internet data plans.
- No need for admin permissions or registry edits.
- Easy to turn off anytime.
Limitations:
- Some minor updates may still install automatically.
- Windows might still download small critical updates in the background.
3. Use the Group Policy Editor (Permanent Method)
This is a more advanced and reliable method available in Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type:
gpedit.mscand press Enter. - Navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Manage updates offered from Windows Update - Double-click Configure Automatic Updates.
- Select Disabled, then click Apply → OK.
Alternative Option:
If you don’t want to disable updates completely, select Enabled, then under Options, choose:
- Notify for download and auto install — Windows will ask before downloading.
Effect:
Windows will no longer automatically check or download updates without your permission.
4. Disable the Windows Update Service
You can turn off the background service responsible for downloading and installing updates.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type:
services.mscand press Enter. - Scroll down and find Windows Update.
- Right-click it → select Properties.
- In the Startup type dropdown, choose Disabled.
- Click Stop, then Apply → OK.
To Re-enable Later:
Repeat the steps and change Startup type back to Automatic (Delayed Start).
Note:
While this stops updates completely, the service may automatically re-enable after a major update or reboot. You may need to repeat this occasionally.
5. Use Command Prompt or PowerShell
If you prefer a quick, script-based approach, you can disable Windows Update using commands.
Steps (Command Prompt):
- Open CMD as Administrator.
- Type:
net stop wuauserv - Then type:
sc config wuauserv start= disabled - Press Enter after each line.
Steps (PowerShell):
Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
Stop-Service -Name wuauserv
Set-Service -Name wuauserv -StartupType Disabled
To Re-enable:
sc config wuauserv start= auto
net start wuauserv
6. Use Registry Editor (For Advanced Users)
If you’re using Windows 10/11 Home, the Group Policy Editor isn’t available — but you can achieve the same effect through the Registry.
Warning:
Editing the registry incorrectly can cause issues. Create a restore point before proceeding.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type:
regeditand press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU - If the WindowsUpdate or AU key doesn’t exist, create them manually.
- On the right pane, right-click → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name it:
NoAutoUpdate - Double-click it and set Value data = 1.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
Effect:
Windows Update will be disabled until you delete this key or set its value to 0.
7. Limit Windows Update Bandwidth
Windows lets you control how much bandwidth updates can use — slowing them down or halting them effectively.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Advanced Options → Delivery Optimization → Advanced Options.
- Under Download settings, toggle Limit how much bandwidth is used for downloading updates.
- Set it to 5% or 10%.
This won’t fully disable updates but will make them almost inactive, as Windows can’t download large files quickly.
8. Use Windows Update Blocker Tool (Third-party Utility)
There are free tools like Windows Update Blocker by Sordum.org that simplify the process.
Steps:
- Download Windows Update Blocker from a trusted source.
- Open the program and choose Disable Updates.
- Click Apply Now.
It automatically changes system services and registry entries safely.
Advantages:
- One-click control over updates.
- Works on all Windows editions (Home, Pro, etc.).
- Prevents Windows from re-enabling updates.
Note:
Always download third-party tools from official or verified sources.
9. Disable Update Restart Notifications
Even if you disable updates, Windows may still show restart notifications. You can turn those off too.
Steps:
- Open Settings → System → Notifications.
- Scroll to Additional settings.
- Uncheck Show notifications for Windows Update restart.
Now your workflow won’t be interrupted by reminder popups.
10. Stop Automatic Driver Updates
Windows Update often installs unwanted or incompatible drivers automatically. You can disable that separately.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type:
sysdm.cpland press Enter. - Go to the Hardware tab → click Device Installation Settings.
- Choose No (your device might not work as expected).
- Click Save Changes.
This prevents Windows from automatically downloading driver updates.
11. Defer Feature and Quality Updates
You can delay both major (feature) and minor (quality) updates using Group Policy.
Steps:
- Run gpedit.msc.
- Navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Windows Update for Business - Double-click Select when Preview Builds and Feature Updates are received.
- Choose Enabled, then set the number of days to defer.
- Do the same for Quality Updates.
This lets you delay updates for up to 365 days (feature updates) and 30 days (quality updates).
12. Disable Windows Update Tasks in Task Scheduler
Windows may still trigger update checks using scheduled tasks. You can disable these too.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type:
taskschd.mscand press Enter. - Navigate to:
Task Scheduler Library → Microsoft → Windows → WindowsUpdate - Disable tasks like:
- Scheduled Start
- Automatic App Update
- Scheduled Scan
Right-click each → select Disable.
13. Disable Update Orchestrator
The Update Orchestrator Service manages how updates are downloaded and installed. You can stop it as well.
Steps:
- Open Services (services.msc).
- Find Update Orchestrator Service.
- Right-click → Properties → Stop → Disabled.
This adds another layer of control against forced updates.
14. Use Local Group Policy to Block Update Restart
Windows sometimes restarts after installing updates even if you’re working. You can prevent that using policy settings.
Steps:
- Run:
gpedit.msc - Navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update - Find No auto-restart with logged on users for scheduled automatic updates installations.
- Double-click → choose Enabled → Apply → OK.
This ensures Windows won’t restart automatically when you’re logged in.
15. Disable Windows Update Medic Service
Even if you disable updates, Windows Update Medic Service (WaaSMedicSVC) may try to restart them. You can disable it using the Registry.
Steps:
- Open Registry Editor (regedit).
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc - Double-click Start, change Value data to 4, and click OK.
- Restart your computer.
16. Disable Delivery Optimization
Delivery Optimization shares updates with other PCs over the internet, which uses bandwidth even if updates are paused.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Advanced Options → Delivery Optimization.
- Toggle Allow downloads from other PCs to Off.
This stops background update sharing completely.
17. Block Windows Update Using Firewall
You can block update servers via the Windows Firewall.
Steps:
- Open Windows Defender Firewall → Advanced Settings.
- Click Outbound Rules → New Rule → Program → Next.
- Select:
C:\Windows\System32\svchost.exe - Block the connection → Name it Block Windows Update → Finish.
Now Windows Update cannot access the internet.
18. Create a Script to Toggle Updates Easily
If you want flexibility, create a batch file to disable or enable updates quickly.
Example:
@echo off
net stop wuauserv
sc config wuauserv start= disabled
pause
Save this as disableupdate.bat and run as Administrator.
To enable again:
@echo off
sc config wuauserv start= auto
net start wuauserv
pause
19. Use Services Manager Software
Programs like Autoruns or Service Manager give graphical access to disable system services safely — including Windows Update, Medic Service, and Orchestrator.
20. Manually Install Updates When Needed
Even after disabling automatic updates, you can manually check for updates when you choose.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
- Click Download and install when you’re ready.
This gives you full manual control over your system maintenance.
Risks of Disabling Automatic Updates
While many users prefer to disable updates, it’s important to know the risks:
- Security vulnerabilities may remain unpatched.
- Driver compatibility may lag behind new hardware.
- New Windows features won’t arrive automatically.
To stay safe:
- Manually check for updates every few months.
- Keep antivirus software active.
- Enable updates temporarily when installing new apps or drivers.
Best Practice: Controlled Updating
Instead of turning updates off permanently, consider a balanced approach:
- Pause updates for 35 days.
- Set a metered connection.
- Disable the update service temporarily when working on critical tasks.
- Enable updates monthly to apply essential patches.
This ensures both stability and security.
Conclusion
Windows automatic updates are designed to improve performance and security, but they don’t always align with user preferences. Whether you’re avoiding data usage, preventing restarts, or maintaining control, the methods above let you disable automatic updates in Windows 10 and Windows 11 safely and effectively.
From simple tricks like pausing updates or setting a metered connection to advanced techniques involving Group Policy, Registry Editor, and command-line tools, you now have complete control over how and when updates occur.
Remember: disabling updates isn’t dangerous if you manage them manually. Always keep your system backed up and install essential patches occasionally. By mastering these tricks, you can enjoy smoother performance, faster boot times, and fewer interruptions — exactly the way you want your Windows to run.
FAQs
1. Why should I disable automatic updates in Windows 10 or 11?
Disabling automatic updates helps prevent unexpected restarts, data loss, or compatibility issues caused by new updates. Many users prefer to control when updates are installed manually to ensure stability.
2. Is it safe to turn off Windows automatic updates permanently?
It’s generally safe if you manually check for security and driver updates regularly. However, Microsoft recommends keeping updates enabled for system protection and bug fixes.
3. What is the easiest way to stop Windows updates temporarily?
Go to Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates for 7 days. You can extend the pause up to 35 days using the “Advanced options” menu.
4. How do I disable automatic updates using Services (services.msc)?
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Find Windows Update.
- Right-click → Properties → set Startup type to Disabled → click Stop → Apply → OK.
This stops the update service completely until manually re-enabled.
5. Can I use the Group Policy Editor to disable updates?
Yes, if you have Windows 10/11 Pro or Enterprise:
- Open gpedit.msc.
- Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Configure Automatic Updates.
- Set it to Disabled.
6. How do I disable updates using the Registry Editor?
- Press Windows + R, type regedit, and open:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU - Create or modify a DWORD (32-bit) value named NoAutoUpdate and set it to 1.
- Restart your PC.
This disables automatic updates system-wide.
7. How can I use a metered connection to block updates?
Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi (or Ethernet) → select your connection → toggle Set as metered connection ON.
Windows treats metered networks as limited data connections and won’t download updates automatically.
8. Do metered connections block all updates?
They block most automatic updates, but critical security updates or Defender definitions may still download occasionally.
9. Can I stop Windows from updating device drivers automatically?
Yes.
Open Control Panel → System → Advanced system settings → Hardware → Device Installation Settings, then select No (your device might not work as expected).
10. Can I use CMD to disable Windows updates?
Yes. Run Command Prompt as Administrator and type:
sc stop wuauserv
sc config wuauserv start= disabled
This stops and disables the Windows Update service instantly.
11. How do I re-enable updates through CMD later?
To turn it back on, use:
sc config wuauserv start= auto
sc start wuauserv
12. Can I disable Windows Update using PowerShell?
Yes. Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
Stop-Service -Name wuauserv
Set-Service -Name wuauserv -StartupType Disabled
This achieves the same effect as the CMD method.
13. How do I block updates via the Windows Registry for specific users?
Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
Create a new DWORD value NoWindowsUpdate and set it to 1. Restart your computer to apply changes.
14. How do I stop Windows Update Assistant from reinstalling itself?
Delete or rename the Windows10Upgrade or WindowsUpdateAssistant folder located in:
C:\Windows\UpdateAssistant
Then disable update tasks in Task Scheduler.
15. How do I block update tasks using Task Scheduler?
Open Task Scheduler → Microsoft → Windows → WindowsUpdate, and disable these tasks:
- Scheduled Start
- Automatic App Update
- UpdateModel
This prevents the OS from initiating update checks automatically.
16. Can third-party tools disable updates permanently?
Yes, tools like StopUpdates10, Windows Update Blocker, and Winaero Tweaker can manage or block updates easily. However, only download such tools from trusted sources.
17. What happens if I disable updates for too long?
Your system may miss out on critical patches, security updates, and driver improvements. It’s best to check for updates manually once every few months.
18. How can I disable automatic updates only for drivers?
Use Group Policy:
- Open gpedit.msc
- Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Do not include drivers with Windows Updates
- Set it to Enabled
19. Can I stop Windows from restarting automatically after updates?
Yes. In Group Policy, navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → No auto-restart with logged on users
Enable this policy to stop automatic restarts.
20. What if Windows keeps turning updates back on automatically?
Windows sometimes resets settings after major feature updates. To prevent this:
- Disable update services again after the update.
- Recheck Group Policy or Registry settings.
- Block Update Orchestrator Service in Services.
21. Can I hide specific Windows updates?
Yes. Microsoft provides a Show or Hide Updates Troubleshooter Tool that lets you block specific updates from being installed.
22. How do I disable the “Restart required” message after updates?
Open CMD as admin and run:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
Then delete the RebootRequired registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\Auto Update
23. Can I disable updates for Windows Store apps only?
Yes. Open Microsoft Store → Settings, and turn off App updates. This prevents automatic app updates but not system updates.
24. Will disabling updates affect Windows Defender?
Yes, it might. Windows Defender updates often come through Windows Update. If you disable updates, you may need to update Defender manually through its settings or by downloading offline definition files.
25. What is the best long-term method to control Windows updates?
The most reliable approach is a combination of:
- Disabling updates via Group Policy
- Setting a metered connection
- Disabling Windows Update Service
- Regularly checking for updates manually
This provides maximum control while keeping your system secure and stable.
✅ Final Tip:
While it’s possible to completely disable Windows automatic updates, it’s recommended to pause or delay them instead of removing update functionality entirely. This ensures your system remains secure, but you maintain full control over when updates are installed.
