Windows 10 provides multiple methods to stop updates, and each one serves a different purpose. Some options simply pause updates for a few weeks, while others completely disable automatic updates until you manually turn them back on.
In this guide, I will explain them in detail!
How to Stop Updates in Windows 10?
Follow these steps to stop Windows 10 updates:
- Open Settings and go to Update & Security.
- Select Windows Update from the left panel.
- Choose Advanced options to pause updates temporarily.
- Open the Services app to disable the Windows Update service for a longer period.
- Use the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor if you want more advanced update controls.
- Restart your computer and verify that automatic updates have stopped.
Step 1: Pause Windows Updates Through Settings
The easiest way to stop updates is by using the built-in Pause Updates feature.
Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Then click Advanced options. Scroll until you find the Pause Updates section and choose a date from the available options.
Once you select a date, Windows will temporarily stop downloading and installing updates until the chosen period ends. This method is ideal if you are working on an important project, using limited internet data, or simply do not want updates interrupting your work. Since this feature is officially supported by Microsoft, it is the safest way to delay updates without making permanent system changes.
Step 2: Disable the Windows Update Service
If you want to stop updates for a longer period, you can disable the Windows Update service.
Go to Start, type Services, and open the Services application. Then scroll down until you find Windows Update. Double-click it to open its properties. Under Startup type, select Disabled. Then click Stop if the service is currently running. Select Apply, and then click OK.
After completing these steps, Windows Update will no longer run automatically. This prevents your computer from downloading and installing updates in the background. If you ever want updates again, simply return to the same window and change the startup type back to Manual or Automatic before starting the service.
Step 3: Configure Updates Using Group Policy Editor
If you are using Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, you can control updates through the Group Policy Editor.
Go to Start, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter. Then navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage end user experience. Open Configure Automatic Updates, select Disabled, and click Apply, followed by OK.
This method gives you more control over how Windows handles updates. Instead of downloading updates automatically, you can choose to manage them manually. This option is commonly used by IT professionals and business users because it provides additional flexibility without completely removing Windows Update features.
Step 4: Modify the Windows Registry
If your version of Windows does not include the Group Policy Editor, you can use the Registry Editor.
Go to Start, type regedit, and press Enter. Then navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE > Policies > Microsoft > Windows. Create a new key named WindowsUpdate if it does not already exist. Inside that key, create another key named AU. Then create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named NoAutoUpdate and set its value to 1.
After making these changes, restart your computer. Windows will stop downloading updates automatically. Since the registry contains important system settings, make changes carefully and consider creating a system restore point before editing it.
Step 5: Set Your Network Connection as Metered
If your primary concern is preventing large downloads, setting your connection to Metered can help.
Go to Start > Settings > Network & Internet. Then select your current Wi Fi or Ethernet connection. Open its properties and turn on Set as metered connection.
When your connection is marked as metered, Windows reduces background data usage, including many update downloads. This method is especially useful if you have a limited internet plan or frequently use mobile hotspots.
Step 6: Verify That Updates Have Stopped
After using any of the methods above, you should confirm that Windows Update is no longer running automatically.
Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Then click Check for updates. If updates remain paused or the update service has been disabled, Windows will display the appropriate status message instead of automatically downloading new updates.
Verifying the result ensures that your selected method is working correctly and helps you avoid unexpected updates later.
FAQs
Is it safe to stop Windows 10 updates?
Temporarily stopping updates is generally safe if you plan to install security updates later. However, disabling updates for an extended period may expose your computer to security vulnerabilities and software compatibility issues.
Can I enable updates again later?
Yes. Every method described in this guide can be reversed. Simply re-enable the Windows Update service, remove the registry or Group Policy changes, or turn off the pause option.
Will stopping updates improve computer performance?
It can improve performance temporarily because Windows will not use system resources to download or install updates. However, long-term performance improvements usually come from keeping Windows updated.
Does Windows 10 Home support all of these methods?
No. The Group Policy Editor is not available in Windows 10 Home. Home users can use the Settings, Services, Registry, or Metered Connection methods instead.
Why does Windows sometimes enable updates again?
Major Windows feature updates may restore certain update settings. If that happens, you may need to repeat your preferred method.
Summary
Knowing how to stop updates in Windows 10 gives you greater control over when your computer downloads and installs updates. Whether you simply need to pause updates for a few weeks or disable automatic updates for a longer period, Windows provides several effective options. Beginners will find the Pause Updates feature the easiest and safest choice, while advanced users may prefer using the Services, Group Policy Editor, or Registry Editor for more control.
Regardless of the method you choose, remember that keeping your system updated with important security patches is essential for maintaining the safety, stability, and overall performance of your Windows 10 PC.