How To Stop Windows 10 Updating

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by

Vector Linux
in

Have you ever been in the middle of an important task on your Windows 10 computer, only to have it abruptly interrupted by an unexpected operating system update? It can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re on a tight deadline or in the middle of a gaming session. Fortunately, there are ways to take control of your Windows 10 updates and prevent them from disrupting your workflow. In this article, I’ll share some tips and tricks on how to stop Windows 10 from updating.

Method 1: Using Group Policy Editor

If you have the Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise edition, you can use the Group Policy Editor to disable automatic updates. Here’s how:

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “gpedit.msc” (without quotes) and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  3. In the left-hand pane, navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
  4. Double-click on the “Configure Automatic Updates” policy on the right-hand side.
  5. Select the “Disabled” option, then click “Apply” and “OK” to save the changes.

Method 2: Using the Registry Editor

If you have the Windows 10 Home edition, which doesn’t include the Group Policy Editor, you can use the Registry Editor to disable automatic updates. Here’s how:

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type “regedit” (without quotes) and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
  4. Right-click on the “Windows” key, select “New,” and then click “Key” to create a new key.
  5. Name the new key “WindowsUpdate” (without quotes).
  6. Right-click on the “WindowsUpdate” key, select “New,” and then click “Key” to create another new key.
  7. Name the new key “AU” (without quotes).
  8. Right-click on the “AU” key, select “New,” and then click “DWORD (32-bit) Value” to create a new DWORD value.
  9. Name the new DWORD value “NoAutoUpdate” (without quotes).
  10. Double-click on the “NoAutoUpdate” value and set its data to “1”.
  11. Click “OK” to save the changes.

Method 3: Using the Windows Update Settings

If you’re not comfortable with modifying the system settings using the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor, you can try changing the Windows Update settings directly. Here’s how:

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Click on “Update & Security.”
  3. In the left-hand pane, click on “Windows Update.”
  4. Click on “Change active hours” to set a time range when you’re usually using your computer.
  5. Windows will try to avoid updating during your active hours.
  6. If you want to completely disable updates, click on “Advanced options” and select “Pause updates” for up to 35 days.

It’s important to note that while these methods can help you stop Windows 10 from automatically updating, it’s generally not recommended to completely disable updates. Updates often include important security patches and bug fixes that help keep your computer safe and stable. It’s a good idea to manually install updates regularly, especially if you’re using your computer for sensitive tasks or online activities.

To sum up, whether you’re using the Group Policy Editor, Registry Editor, or Windows Update settings, you can take control of your Windows 10 updates and prevent them from disrupting your workflow. Just remember to weigh the benefits of stopping updates against the potential risks of not installing important security patches. Happy computing!