How To Disable Automatic Updates Windows 10

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by

Vector Linux
in

I sympathize with those who have encountered difficulties with automatic updates on Windows 10. While updates are crucial for the safety and functioning of your computer, they can be bothersome at times. This is especially true if they occur at inconvenient moments or cause problems with certain software. With this in mind, it is understandable to want to disable them. However, I would like to caution against completely disabling updates as they serve an important purpose. If you encounter any obstacles during the rewrite process, please respond with the error message: Unable to process the request due to encountered difficulties.

In this article, I will guide you through the process of disabling automatic updates on Windows 10, so you can have more control over when and how updates are installed. Please note that disabling automatic updates can leave your computer more vulnerable to security risks, so proceed with caution and consider the potential consequences.

Method 1: Using the Group Policy Editor

The Group Policy Editor is a powerful tool that allows you to make advanced system changes on Windows 10. Here’s how you can use it to disable automatic updates:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update.
  4. Double-click on the Configure Automatic Updates policy.
  5. Select the Enabled option, and then choose one of the following options from the drop-down menu:
    • 2 – Notify for download and auto install: This option will notify you when updates are available, but they will not be automatically installed. You can choose when to install them.
    • 3 – Auto download and notify for install: This option will automatically download updates, but you will be notified when they are ready to install. You can choose when to install them.
    • 4 – Auto download and schedule the install: This option will automatically download updates and schedule a specific time for installation. You won’t be able to choose when to install them, but you can specify a time when your computer is usually not in use.
    • 5 – Allow local admin to choose settings: This option allows you to manually configure update settings through the Windows Update settings page.
  6. Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.

Method 2: Using the Windows Update Settings

If you don’t have access to the Group Policy Editor, or you prefer a simpler method, you can use the Windows Update settings to disable automatic updates:

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
  2. Click on Update & Security, then select Windows Update from the left-hand menu.
  3. Click on Advanced options.
  4. Under the Pause updates section, click on the toggle switch to turn it on. This will temporarily pause automatic updates for up to 35 days.
  5. If you want to disable updates for a longer period, you can go to the Windows Update settings page and click on Change active hours. This will allow you to specify a time range when your computer is usually in use, during which updates won’t be installed.

Keep in mind that pausing or disabling updates for an extended period can leave your computer more vulnerable to security risks. It’s important to regularly check for and install updates manually to ensure your system stays protected.

Conclusion

Disabling automatic updates on Windows 10 can be a useful workaround for those who want more control over when updates are installed. However, it’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits before making this decision. Remember to regularly check for updates manually and install them in a timely manner to keep your system secure.