How to Turn Off Windows Automatic Updates on Windows 11/10

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Automatic updates in Windows 11 ensure that your system remains secure with the latest patches and enhancements. However, there may be instances where you want to turn off automatic updates, such as during critical work periods or to prevent potential conflicts with specific software. While it's generally recommended to keep automatic updates enabled to protect your system, this guide will show you how to turn off or manage automatic updates in Windows 11, providing you with the flexibility to control when updates are applied.
Turn Off Windows Automatic Update On Windows 10

1. Pause Updates Temporarily

You can pause updates for up to 35 days to avoid interruptions.

  • Open Settings:

    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

  • Navigate to Windows Update:

    • Go to “Update & Security” and select “Windows Update” from the sidebar.

  • Pause Updates:

    • Click on “Pause updates for 7 days” to delay updates temporarily. You can click this button multiple times to extend the pause period up to 35 days.

2. Set a Specific Update Delay

You can defer updates for a longer period through advanced settings.

  • Open Settings:

    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

  • Navigate to Windows Update:

    • Go to “Update & Security” and select “Windows Update” from the sidebar.

  • Access Advanced Options:

    • Click on “Advanced options.”

  • Adjust Update Settings:

    • Under “Pause updates,” you can choose a date up to 35 days ahead to defer updates. Additionally, you can configure “Defer upgrades” under “Update settings” if available.

3. Disable Windows Update Service

Stopping the Windows Update service can temporarily halt updates, but it may restart automatically.

  • Open Services:

    • Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

  • Locate Windows Update Service:

    • In the Services window, find “Windows Update” in the list.

  • Stop the Service:

    • Right-click on “Windows Update” and select “Stop.” This will halt the update service temporarily.

  • Disable Automatic Restart:

    • Right-click on “Windows Update” again, select “Properties,” and change the “Startup type” to “Disabled” to prevent the service from restarting automatically. Click “Apply” and “OK.”

    Note: Disabling the service entirely can have unintended consequences and might need to be re-enabled manually.

4. Use Group Policy Editor (Pro and Enterprise Editions)

The Group Policy Editor provides a way to control update settings in professional editions of Windows 11.

  • Open Group Policy Editor:

    • Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

  • Navigate to Windows Update Policies:

    • Go to “Computer Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Windows Components” > “Windows Update.”

  • Configure Update Settings:

    • Double-click on “Configure Automatic Updates” and set it to “Disabled” or configure other policies as needed to control update behavior. Click “Apply” and “OK.”

5. Use Registry Editor

For advanced users, modifying the Windows Registry can affect update settings.

  • Open Registry Editor:

    • Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

  • Navigate to Update Settings:

    • Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU.

  • Create or Modify Registry Keys:

    • If the “WindowsUpdate” and “AU” keys do not exist, create them. Then, create or modify the following DWORD values:

      • NoAutoUpdate: Set to 1 to disable automatic updates.
      • AUOptions: Set to 2 to notify for download and notify for install.

    • Save Changes and Restart:

      • Close Registry Editor and restart your computer for changes to take effect.

    Caution: Incorrect modifications to the registry can cause system instability. Always back up the registry before making changes.

6. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter

If updates are causing problems, the troubleshooter can help.

  • Open Settings:

    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

  • Navigate to Troubleshoot:

    • Go to “System” and select “Troubleshoot,” then “Other troubleshooters.”

  • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:

    • Find and run the “Windows Update” troubleshooter to resolve issues with updates.

7. Disable Update Notifications

You can manage update notifications to reduce interruptions.

  • Open Settings:

    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

  • Navigate to Notifications:

    • Go to “System” and select “Notifications.”

  • Manage Notifications:

    • Find “Windows Update” notifications and toggle them off to reduce interruptions, while still allowing updates to be applied.

Conclusion

Turning off or managing automatic updates in Windows 11 allows you to control when updates are applied, which can be useful in specific situations. While pausing updates temporarily or deferring them for a set period provides a balance between control and security, disabling updates entirely can have significant consequences. Using methods such as adjusting settings in the Group Policy Editor, modifying registry entries, or stopping the Windows Update service offers more control but requires caution. Regularly review your update settings to ensure your system remains secure while maintaining the performance and stability you need.