To stop an update in progress on Windows 10, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Pause updates for 7 days while it’s still downloading. If the screen already says Working on updates or Don’t turn off your computer, let it finish. Turning the PC off at that stage can damage Windows.
Applies to: Windows 10. Checked against Microsoft Support on September 25, 2026.
Pause an update while it downloads
- Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Select Pause updates for 7 days. The download stops.
To pause for longer, select Advanced options and pick a date under Pause updates. Select Resume updates when you’re ready.
Stop the Windows Update service
If pausing doesn’t stop it, stop the service itself.
- Press Windows logo key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Right-click Windows Update and select Stop.
Windows starts the service again later, so pair this with a pause if you need updates off for a few days.
Cancel a pending restart
If the update is installed and only the restart is left:
- In Windows Update, select Change active hours so Windows won’t restart while you’re working, or pick a restart time if a restart is scheduled.
- If a shutdown countdown is on screen, open Command Prompt and run
shutdown /abefore the timer ends.
If the update is stuck
If Working on updates hasn’t moved for several hours, hold the power button to turn the PC off, then turn it on again. Windows usually undoes the update and starts normally. Then run Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cancel an update once it says Working on updates?
No. Wait for it to finish. Powering off during this stage is the most common cause of a PC that won’t start after an update.
How do I turn off automatic updates?
See how to turn off automatic updates in Windows 10. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025, so keep security updates coming through Extended Security Updates.
How do I install updates again later?
See how to update Windows 10 and check for updates.
On Windows 11, see how to stop or pause Windows 11 updates.
Microsoft’s guide is Pause updates in Windows. More help is on our Windows Help & Guides page.
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.