If you’re fed up with Windows 10 or 11 automatically updating your system at inconvenient times, you’re not alone. This guide will show you how to permanently disable automatic updates using four different methods: using Group Policy Editor, Registry Editor, Services Manager, and by preventing forced restarts and background updates. By following these steps, you will be able to regain control of your PC updates.

Step 1: Turn Off Automatic Updates Using Group Policy Editor

To disable automatic updates through the Group Policy Editor, follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter.
  3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
  4. Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates.
  5. Select the Disabled option, then click on Apply and OK.

Step 2: Disable Updates via Registry Editor

Here’s how to use the Registry Editor for disabling updates:

  1. Open the Run dialog again using Win + R.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter.
  3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\.
  4. Right-click on the Windows key, select New > Key, and name it WindowsUpdate.
  5. Right-click on WindowsUpdate, select New > Key, and name it AU.
  6. Right-click on the right side, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it NoAutoUpdate. Set its value to 1.

Step 3: Block Updates Using Services Manager

Follow these steps to stop the Windows Update service:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Scroll down and find Windows Update.
  4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
  5. In the ‘Startup type’ dropdown, select Disabled. Click Stop if the service is running, then click Apply and OK.

Step 4: Prevent Forced Restarts and Background Updates

To prevent forced restarts and background updates, follow these instructions:

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  3. Select Advanced options.
  4. Under ‘Pause updates’, you can select a period to pause updates. Alternatively, toggle the option to turn off automatic restarting after updates.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

Here are a few additional tips to help you manage Windows updates more effectively:

  • Always back up your Registry settings before making changes to avoid potential issues.
  • Check your Group Policy settings if updates seem to resume unexpectedly, as they can be overridden by newer policies.
  • Be aware that disabling updates may leave your system vulnerable to security risks. Use these methods responsibly.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively disable automatic updates on Windows 10 and 11, giving you more control over your system’s update schedule. Remember that while these methods can prevent unwanted interruptions, they may also prevent essential security updates. Always weigh the benefits against the potential risks. For more tips and tricks on managing Windows, check out our other guides!

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