How to Stop Windows Update in Windows 10 Permanently: A Complete Guide

how to stop windows update in windows 10 permanently

Ever been annoyed by those untimely Windows 10 updates? You’re not alone! Thankfully, there are steps to stop them permanently. You’ll need to tweak some settings and use special methods. Read on to find out how you can reclaim control over your updates.

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Stop Windows Update in Windows 10 Permanently

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a series of steps that will help you disable Windows Update on your Windows 10 machine permanently. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Open the Services Window

First, press "Win + R" to open the Run dialog box, then type "services.msc" and hit Enter.

This action brings up the Services window, where you can manage various services running on your computer.

Step 2: Locate Windows Update Service

Scroll down the list and find "Windows Update" in the Services window.

Finding this service is crucial as it is the main entity responsible for fetching and installing updates on your Windows 10 system.

Step 3: Disable the Windows Update Service

Right-click on "Windows Update," select "Properties," then set the "Startup type" to "Disabled." Click "Apply," then "OK."

By disabling this service, you are preventing Windows from automatically downloading and installing updates.

Step 4: Stop the Windows Update Service

While still in the "Windows Update Properties" dialog, click the "Stop" button under "Service status."

Stopping the service ensures that it won’t run until you manually start it again, adding an extra layer of control.

Step 5: Use Group Policy Editor (for Pro and Enterprise Versions)

Press "Win + R," type "gpedit.msc," then navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update. Double-click "Configure Automatic Updates," select "Disabled," and click "Apply," then "OK."

This step gives you another layer of disabling updates, especially useful if you’re running a Pro or Enterprise version of Windows 10.

Step 6: Use Registry Editor (for Home Edition)

Press "Win + R," type "regedit," and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWindowsUpdateAU. Right-click in the right pane, select "New > DWORD (32-bit) Value," name it "NoAutoUpdate," and set its value to 1.

This method is especially effective for those using the Home edition of Windows 10, which lacks the Group Policy Editor.

After completing these steps, your Windows Updates should be disabled permanently. However, it’s always good to check occasionally to ensure settings haven’t reverted due to new updates or system changes.

Tips: How to Stop Windows Update in Windows 10 Permanently

• Always back up your registry before making any changes.
• Disabling Windows Update can leave your PC vulnerable to security threats; consider manual updates.
• Test your system after each step to ensure that the change has been effective.
• Use these methods only if automatic updates cause significant issues.
• Keep a record of the changes you make, so you can easily revert them if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still update Windows manually?

Yes, you can manually check for updates by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking "Check for updates."

Will disabling updates affect my system’s performance?

Disabling updates won’t affect performance directly, but missing critical updates may lead to vulnerabilities that could impact performance over time.

Can I re-enable updates if I need to?

Absolutely! You can reverse the steps to re-enable the Windows Update service and allow updates to proceed.

What if I don’t have "gpedit.msc" on my system?

If you have Windows 10 Home edition, you won’t have Group Policy Editor. Use the Registry Editor method instead to disable updates.

Are there any risks to disabling Windows updates permanently?

Yes, your system may become vulnerable to security threats and could miss important updates that affect functionality and stability.

Summary

1. Open Services Window.
2. Locate Windows Update Service.
3. Disable Windows Update Service.
4. Stop Windows Update Service.
5. Use Group Policy Editor.
6. Use Registry Editor.

Conclusion

Stopping Windows Update in Windows 10 permanently is definitely doable but comes with its own set of risks. By following these steps, you can take control over when and how your system updates. However, always remember that updates do more than just add features—they often include crucial security patches. If you decide to go this route, make sure you periodically check for and install necessary updates manually. This way, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—control and security. Now that you know how to stop Windows Update in Windows 10 permanently, you can tailor your update experience to better suit your needs.