how to turn off auto update in Windows 10
Turning off auto updates in Windows 10 is a straightforward process. You’ll need to adjust settings to put a halt to these updates. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to disable auto updates, ensuring you have full control over when updates are installed.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Turn Off Auto Update in Windows 10
In this tutorial, we will go through the steps to turn off automatic updates in Windows 10. This will help you manage updates manually and avoid unexpected restarts or installations.
Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
This step is the gateway to accessing various system settings easily. The Run dialog box allows you to quickly enter commands and open system tools.
Step 2: Type ‘services.msc’ and Hit Enter
Type ‘services.msc’ in the Run dialog box and press Enter to open the Services window.
The Services window lists all the services running on your machine. You’ll find the Windows Update service here, which we need to modify to stop automatic updates.
Step 3: Locate Windows Update Service
Scroll down through the list of services until you find the ‘Windows Update’ service.
Finding the Windows Update service is crucial. This service controls all the update operations on your system.
Step 4: Double-Click on Windows Update
Double-click on ‘Windows Update’ to open its properties dialog box.
Opening the properties dialog box will allow you to change the settings for how this service operates.
Step 5: Change the Startup Type
In the ‘Startup type’ dropdown menu, select ‘Disabled’ and click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’.
By disabling the startup type, you are effectively turning off the Windows Update service, preventing it from automatically starting and installing updates.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Windows 10 will no longer automatically download and install updates. This gives you the flexibility to update your system when it’s most convenient for you.
Tips for Turning Off Auto Update in Windows 10
- Check for Security Patches Manually: Even with auto updates off, make sure you periodically check for critical security patches.
- Backup Your System: Before making any changes, always backup your important files.
- Use Metered Connection: You can set your network to metered to further prevent automatic updates.
- Third-Party Tools: Consider using third-party tools designed to manage Windows updates.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with tech news to know when important updates are released.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn auto updates back on if I change my mind?
Yes, you can easily re-enable auto updates by following the same steps and setting the startup type to ‘Automatic’.
Will turning off auto updates affect my system’s performance?
No, turning off auto updates will not impact the performance of your system, but you may miss out on important updates.
Is it safe to turn off auto updates?
It’s generally safe, but be sure to manually install critical updates to avoid security vulnerabilities.
How often should I manually check for updates?
Checking for updates once a month is a good practice to ensure your system remains secure.
Are there any risks in disabling auto updates?
The main risk is missing out on security patches, which can leave your system vulnerable to threats.
Summary
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type ‘services.msc’ and hit Enter.
- Locate the ‘Windows Update’ service.
- Double-click on ‘Windows Update’.
- Set ‘Startup type’ to ‘Disabled’.
Conclusion
Disabling auto updates in Windows 10 gives you the freedom to manage your updates on your terms. While keeping updates off can be risky due to potential security vulnerabilities, being proactive in manually checking for updates can mitigate these risks. If you decide to turn off auto updates, make sure to follow the steps outlined above carefully. This ensures that you retain control over your system without compromising on safety. For further reading, you might look into other methods of managing Windows updates or consider using tools that alert you to critical updates without automatically installing them. By taking these steps, you can keep your system secure while avoiding the inconvenience of unexpected updates.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.