Want to keep your Windows 10 just the way it is without the Windows 11 update? You can stop the automatic upgrade by tweaking some settings. You’ll need to use a combination of the Group Policy Editor and some registry tweaks to keep your system from upgrading. Just follow these steps to take control of your updates.
How to Stop Windows 11 Update in Windows 10
In this section, you’ll learn how to prevent Windows 10 from updating to Windows 11. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your system stays exactly how you like it.
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
Type “gpedit.msc” in the Windows search bar and press Enter.
The Group Policy Editor is a tool that helps you manage your Windows settings by providing a more detailed interface. You’ll need admin rights to access it.
Step 2: Navigate to Windows Update Settings
Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
Here, you’ll find settings that control how Windows installs updates. We’re diving into these settings to make sure Windows 11 doesn’t sneak in.
Step 3: Modify “Select the target Feature Update version”
Double-click on “Select the target Feature Update version” and enter “21H1” for Windows 10.
By setting this, you’re telling Windows to stick with the current version of Windows 10. This prevents it from jumping to Windows 11.
Step 4: Apply and Exit
Click on “Apply,” then “OK,” and close the Group Policy Editor.
This step saves your changes. Take a moment to ensure everything is set correctly before exiting.
Step 5: Use Registry Editor for Extra Assurance
Open the Registry Editor by typing “regedit” in the search bar and pressing Enter.
The Registry Editor is like the backbone of your Windows settings. With a few tweaks here, you’ll add an extra layer of security against updates.
Step 6: Navigate to the WindowsUpdate Key
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWindowsUpdate.
This path is where the magic happens. You’ll add a new value here to reinforce your settings.
Step 7: Create TargetReleaseVersion and Set Its Value
Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it “TargetReleaseVersion,” and set its value to 1.
This step confirms to Windows that you’re serious about staying on your current version.
Step 8: Create TargetReleaseVersionInfo
Right-click again, select New > String Value, name it “TargetReleaseVersionInfo,” and set its value to “21H1.”
This locks in the version you prefer, ensuring Windows 11 doesn’t download itself behind your back.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 10 will remain on the 21H1 version. Windows 11 updates will be halted, keeping your current setup intact and preventing any unwanted surprises.
Tips for Stopping Windows 11 Update in Windows 10
- Regularly check your Group Policy settings to ensure they haven’t changed after updates.
- Use a local account instead of a Microsoft account to reduce unwanted updates.
- Keep your system backed up, so you can restore it if an update does slip through.
- Disable automatic updates entirely using Windows Update settings for a more hands-on approach.
- Stay informed about Microsoft’s update policies, as they can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my settings are correct?
After applying the steps, check the “Windows Update” section in Settings. It should show your version as up-to-date with no mention of Windows 11.
Can I reverse these changes if I want to upgrade later?
Yes, you can. Simply revert the Group Policy and Registry changes, and Windows will start checking for the latest updates again.
Is it safe to modify the Registry?
Modifying the Registry is safe when done correctly. Always back up your system before making changes.
Will stopping the update affect my system’s security?
No, you will still receive security updates for your current version of Windows 10.
What if I accidentally update to Windows 11?
You can roll back to Windows 10 within 10 days of the update through the “Recovery” settings.
Summary
- Open Group Policy Editor.
- Navigate to Windows Update Settings.
- Modify “Select the target Feature Update version.”
- Apply and exit Group Policy Editor.
- Open Registry Editor.
- Navigate to WindowsUpdate Key.
- Create TargetReleaseVersion and set its value.
- Create TargetReleaseVersionInfo.
Conclusion
Keeping your Windows 10 system just the way you like it is entirely possible by stopping the Windows 11 update. By following the outlined steps, you remain in control of your device’s software environment. Whether you cherish the familiarity of Windows 10 or need more time before making the leap to Windows 11, these techniques help ensure your experience remains uninterrupted.
Remember, technology is like a fast-moving train, and sometimes it’s okay to stay put at the station you’ve grown accustomed to. If you decide later to hop onto the Windows 11 train, reversing these changes is straightforward.
If you’re eager to learn more about managing your Windows updates or want more tips on optimizing your current setup, there’s plenty of information out there. Dive into online forums, explore Microsoft’s website, or even check out tutorials. Knowledge is power, and staying informed is your best tool for making the most of your Windows experience.
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.