Windows 10 updates can be stopped by tweaking a few settings in your system. You can either use the Settings app, Group Policy, or Services to disable the automatic updates. This guide will walk you through each method, so choose the one that suits you best.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Stop Windows 10 Updates
Ready to stop those pesky Windows 10 updates? By following these steps, you can take control of when and how your system updates.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start button and select ‘Settings.’
The Settings app is your go-to place for making changes to your Windows experience. Look for the gear icon; that’s your ticket.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
In the Settings window, click ‘Update & Security.’
Here, you’ll find everything related to Windows updates. It’s a good hub for managing your system’s security and updates.
Step 3: Select Windows Update
Click on ‘Windows Update’ in the sidebar.
This section shows you all the pending updates and gives you a few options to delay or stop them.
Step 4: Advanced Options
Click on ‘Advanced options.’
In this menu, you can toggle different settings related to how and when updates are installed.
Step 5: Pause Updates
Toggle the switch under ‘Pause updates.’
This will pause all updates for up to 35 days, giving you a break from those update notifications.
Step 6: Use Group Policy Editor (For Windows Pro users)
Press Win + R, type ‘gpedit.msc,’ and hit Enter.
This opens the Group Policy Editor, a powerful tool for making system-wide changes.
Step 7: Navigate to Windows Update Policies
Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
Here you will find all the policies you can tweak to control Windows updates.
Step 8: Configure Automatic Updates
Double-click on ‘Configure Automatic Updates’ and set it to ‘Disabled.’
This will stop Windows from downloading updates automatically.
Step 9: Use Services
Press Win + R, type ‘services.msc,’ and hit Enter.
This opens the Services Manager, where you can manually stop the Windows Update service.
Step 10: Disable Windows Update Service
Find ‘Windows Update,’ right-click it, and select ‘Properties.’ Set the Startup type to ‘Disabled.’
This stops the service from running, effectively halting updates.
After you complete these actions, Windows 10 will no longer automatically download or install updates. You’ll have to manually check for updates if you wish to install them.
Tips on How to Stop Windows 10 Updates
- Check for Updates Manually: Make it a habit to manually check for updates to ensure your system stays secure.
- Backup Your Data: Always backup important files before making any system changes.
- Use Metered Connection: Set your connection as metered to restrict background data usage, including updates.
- Third-Party Tools: Consider using third-party tools designed to manage Windows updates.
- Regular Maintenance: Even if you stop automatic updates, regular system maintenance is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Stop Windows 10 Updates
How can I stop Windows 10 updates permanently?
Using the Group Policy Editor or disabling the Windows Update service via Services Manager can stop updates permanently.
Is it safe to stop Windows 10 updates?
While it can be safe, make sure to manually check for updates to keep your system secure.
Can I pause updates for more than 35 days?
Using the Group Policy Editor or Services Manager, you can effectively pause updates indefinitely.
What happens if I disable Windows Update service?
Disabling the Windows Update service stops all updates from being downloaded or installed.
How do I enable updates again?
Simply reverse the steps: enable the Windows Update service or change the Group Policy settings back.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Select Windows Update.
- Click Advanced Options.
- Pause updates.
- Use Group Policy Editor.
- Navigate to Windows Update Policies.
- Configure Automatic Updates.
- Use Services.
- Disable Windows Update Service.
Conclusion
Stopping Windows 10 updates can give you more control over your system, but it comes with its own set of responsibilities. Remember, while disabling automatic updates can save you from untimely reboots and annoying interruptions, it’s essential to ensure your system remains secure. Regularly check for updates manually and perform routine maintenance on your machine. If you need more granular control, consider using the Group Policy Editor or Services Manager. Following these steps will help you strike a balance between convenience and security. Feel free to dive deeper into each method and find what works best for you.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.