How to Disable Automatic Updates in Windows Desktops and Servers

By default, Windows Update is set up to automatically download and install updates. This helps enhance security, fix bugs, and roll out new features. However, these automatic updates can occasionally interfere with your workflow, lead to compatibility problems, or consume bandwidth when you need it most. If you find yourself in such a situation, you might want to turn off automatic updates. In this article, we’ll walk you through several ways to disable automatic updates on both Windows desktops and servers.

Why Disable Automatic Updates?

• Avoid Interruptions: Keep your system running smoothly without unexpected restarts while you're in the middle of something important
• Bandwidth Management: Save on network resources, especially in situations where every bit of bandwidth counts.
• Compatibility Concerns: Avoid potential issues with specific software or hardware after updates.

Important: Turning off updates can leave your system open to security risks. Make sure to check for updates manually and install any critical patches on a regular basis.

Method 1: Disable Automatic Updates Using Settings (Windows 10/11)

1. Open Settings:
   • Press Windows key + I or search for "Settings" in the Start Menu.
2. Navigate to Update & Security:
   • In the Settings window, click on Update & Security.
3. Access Advanced Options:
   • Under Windows Update, click Advanced Options.
4. Pause Updates:
   • Use the "Pause updates" drop-down menu to delay updates for up to 35 days. This method does not permanently disable updates but provides temporary relief.

Method 2: Disable Automatic Updates via Group Policy (Windows Pro/Enterprise/Server Editions)

1. Open Local Group Policy Editor:

   • Press Windows key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

2. Navigate to Windows Update Settings:

   • Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update

3. Configure Automatic Updates:

   • Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates.
   • Select Disabled to turn off automatic updates.
   • Click Apply and then OK.

4. Restart Your Computer:

   • Restart the system for the changes to take effect.

Method 3: Disable Updates via Services

1. Access Services:
   • Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Update Service:
   • In the Services window, scroll down and locate Windows Update.
3. Disable the Service:
   • Right-click on Windows Update and select Properties.
   • Set the Startup type to Disabled.
   • Click Apply and then OK.
4. Stop the Service:
   • If the service is currently running, click Stop.

Method 4: Using the Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

1. Open Registry Editor:

   • Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

2. Navigate to Windows Update Key:

   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate\\AU

3. Modify NoAutoUpdate Value:

   • Right-click on the AU folder and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
   • Name it NoAutoUpdate and set its value to 1.

4. Restart Your Computer:

   • Restart the system for the changes to take effect.

Warning: Incorrect changes to the registry can harm your system. Proceed with caution and back up the registry before making any modifications.

Special Considerations for Servers

1. Controlled Update Policies:
   • Use Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to manage updates across multiple servers.
2. Avoid Downtime:
   • Schedule updates during maintenance windows to minimize disruption.
3. Monitor Compliance:
   • Regularly audit your server update settings to ensure they align with your organization's policies.

Re-Enabling Updates

If you decide to re-enable updates, simply reverse the steps outlined in the chosen method. Regular updates are essential for maintaining system security and stability.

Conclusion

Turning off automatic updates on your Windows desktops and servers can give you more control over your systems and help you steer clear of those annoying interruptions. But remember, it’s really important to find a good balance with the need for regular updates to keep your systems safe from security threats. So, be sure to use the methods mentioned above wisely and make sure to apply those critical updates when they come around.

Related Article

• Manage additional Windows Update settings