Windows 11 comes with automatic updates that install security patches, feature improvements, and driver updates. While keeping your system updated is generally a good thing, not everyone wants updates to run automatically.
Maybe you’re worried about system stability, internet bandwidth, or you just want to stay in control of when updates install. Whatever the reason, this guide will walk you through different ways to disable Windows 11 updates step by step.
Why Disable Windows 11 Updates?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s explore why someone might want to turn off updates.
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Avoid Interruptions: Updates can restart your computer at inconvenient times.
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Prevent Bugs: New updates sometimes cause system glitches or compatibility issues.
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Save Data: Automatic updates consume bandwidth, which can be costly on limited internet plans.
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Control Versions: Some users prefer sticking with a stable build instead of experimenting with new features.
That said, remember that disabling updates can leave your PC vulnerable to security threats.
Different Ways to Disable Windows 11 Updates
There isn’t just one method to stop Windows 11 from updating. Depending on how permanent you want the solution to be, you can use Settings, Services, Group Policy, Registry Editor, or third-party tools.
Let’s explore them one by one.
Method 1 – Pause Updates via Windows Settings
This is the easiest way if you only want to temporarily stop updates.
Steps
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Windows Update in the left panel.
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Under Pause updates, select the time frame (up to 5 weeks).
After the chosen time, updates will automatically resume.
Method 2 – Disable Windows Update Service
For a more permanent solution, you can disable the update service completely.
Steps
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Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. -
Scroll down and find Windows Update.
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Right-click it and select Properties.
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In the Startup type dropdown, select Disabled.
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Click Stop, then Apply, and OK.
This prevents Windows from automatically checking for updates.
Method 3 – Use Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise Only)
If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use the Group Policy Editor.
Steps
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Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Double-click Configure Automatic Updates.
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Select Disabled, then click Apply and OK.
This completely disables automatic updates.
Method 4 – Use Registry Editor (Advanced)
⚠️ Warning: Be careful while editing the registry. Mistakes can affect your system.
Steps
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Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. -
Navigate to:
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If the AU key doesn’t exist, create it.
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Inside, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named
NoAutoUpdate. -
Set its value to
1.
Restart your PC, and updates will be disabled.
Method 5 – Set Network as Metered Connection
This trick works by telling Windows your internet connection is limited, so it avoids downloading big updates.
Steps
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Open Settings > Network & Internet.
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Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet (depending on what you use).
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Click your network name.
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Toggle on Metered connection.
Windows will now reduce update activity on this connection.
Method 6 – Block Updates Using Third-Party Tools
If you don’t want to mess with system settings, you can use software designed to block updates.
Popular tools include:
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StopUpdates10
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Wu10Man
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Windows Update Blocker
These apps provide one-click solutions to stop updates and re-enable them when needed.
Method 7 – Disable Update Orchestrator
Windows uses a background service called Update Orchestrator to schedule updates. Disabling it can stop forced installations.
Steps
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Press Windows + R, type
taskschd.msc, and hit Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Right-click on tasks like Schedule Scan and Reboot, then disable them.
Method 8 – Limit Active Hours
If you don’t want to disable updates completely, you can at least stop Windows from restarting during your work hours.
Steps
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Open Settings > Windows Update.
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Select Change active hours.
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Choose the time when you use your PC the most.
This won’t disable updates, but it prevents surprise restarts.
Method 9 – Disable Driver Updates
Sometimes, you just want to stop Windows from updating your drivers.
Steps
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Open Settings > System > About.
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Click Advanced system settings.
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Go to the Hardware tab.
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Click Device Installation Settings.
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Select No (your device might not work as expected).
Best Practices When Disabling Updates
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Always install security updates manually from time to time.
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If you use Method 2 or 3, write down the steps to re-enable updates later.
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Keep antivirus software updated to cover security gaps.
Risks of Disabling Windows 11 Updates
While disabling updates may sound appealing, it comes with downsides:
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Security Vulnerabilities: No patches for new threats.
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App Compatibility Issues: Some apps may stop working.
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Feature Loss: You’ll miss new Windows improvements.
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Unsupported System: Eventually, outdated builds may lose Microsoft support.
Conclusion
Disabling Windows 11 updates can be done in several ways, from pausing updates in Settings to disabling services and policies. Each method has its pros and cons, so choose one based on whether you want a temporary pause or a permanent block.
Just remember—updates are designed to keep your system safe. If you disable them, make sure to check for important patches manually to avoid leaving your PC exposed.
FAQs
Q1: Can I permanently disable Windows 11 updates?
Yes, using Group Policy Editor or Services, but Microsoft may override settings in future updates.
Q2: Is it safe to disable Windows updates?
It’s safe for short periods, but long-term disabling can expose your PC to security risks.
Q3: How do I re-enable Windows updates after disabling them?
Just reverse the method you used. For example, restart the Windows Update service or set policies back to default.
Q4: Will disabling updates affect Microsoft Store apps?
No, Store apps update separately and will still receive updates.
Q5: What’s the easiest way to stop updates without messing with system files?
Set your internet connection as metered or use third-party tools like StopUpdates10.