How to Stop Automatic Driver Updates in Windows 10/11

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Automatic driver updates in Windows 10 and 11 can sometimes cause issues, such as compatibility problems or unwanted changes to your system. While keeping drivers up-to-date is generally beneficial, there are scenarios where you might prefer to control when and how updates are applied. This guide outlines methods to stop automatic driver updates in Windows 10 and 11, allowing you to manage driver installations more effectively.

1. Disable Automatic Driver Updates via Group Policy Editor (Windows 10/11 Pro and Higher)

The Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool available in Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions that allows you to modify system settings, including automatic driver updates.

  • Open Group Policy Editor:

    • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
    • Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.

  • Navigate to the Device Installation Settings:

    • In the Group Policy Editor, go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Do not include drivers with Windows Updates.

  • Disable Driver Updates:

    • Double-click on “Do not include drivers with Windows Updates.”
    • Select “Enabled” to prevent Windows from automatically downloading and installing drivers through Windows Update.
    • Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Restart your computer to ensure the policy changes take effect.

2. Use the Device Installation Settings in Control Panel

For users with Windows 10 Home or those who prefer a more straightforward method, adjusting device installation settings in the Control Panel can stop automatic driver updates.

  • Open Device Installation Settings:

    • Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type “Control Panel.” Select the Control Panel app from the search results.
    • Go to “Hardware and Sound” and then click on “Devices and Printers.”

  • Access Device Installation Settings:

    • In the Devices and Printers window, right-click on your computer’s icon and select “Device installation settings.”

  • Change Settings:

    • In the Device Installation Settings window, select “No, let me choose what to do.”
    • Choose “Never install driver software from Windows Update.”
    • Click “Save Changes” to apply the new setting.

3. Modify Windows Registry Settings

Modifying the Windows Registry is an advanced method that can stop automatic driver updates. This method is recommended for users who are comfortable working with the Registry Editor.

  • Open Registry Editor:

    • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
    • Type regedit and press Enter.

  • Navigate to the Driver Update Key:

    • In the Registry Editor, navigate to:
      HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate

  • Create or Modify Registry Values:

    • If the WindowsUpdate key does not exist, right-click on Windows, select New > Key, and name it WindowsUpdate.
    • Inside the WindowsUpdate key, right-click on the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate.
    • Double-click the new ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate value, set its data to 1, and click “OK.”

  • Restart Your Computer:

    • Restart your computer to apply the changes.

4. Prevent Automatic Updates Using Device Manager

While this method doesn’t completely stop automatic updates, it allows you to manage updates for specific devices.

  • Open Device Manager:

    • Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager.”

  • Access Device Properties:

    • Expand the category of the device for which you want to prevent updates.
    • Right-click on the device and select “Properties.”

  • Update Driver Software:

    • Go to the “Driver” tab and click on “Update Driver.”
    • Choose “Browse my computer for drivers” and then select “Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.”
    • Uncheck the “Automatically get updated driver software from Windows Update” option if available.

5. Use a Third-Party Tool

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, several third-party tools can help manage driver updates and block automatic installations.

  • Check for Reliable Tools:
    • Search for reputable tools designed to manage or block automatic driver updates. Ensure the tool is from a trusted source to avoid security risks.

Conclusion

Stopping automatic driver updates in Windows 10 and 11 allows you to retain control over your system's drivers and avoid potential issues caused by automatic changes. By using methods such as the Group Policy Editor, Device Installation Settings, Registry modifications, or third-party tools, you can manage driver updates more effectively. Choose the method that best suits your needs and system configuration to maintain a stable and well-functioning Windows environment.

 

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