How to Stop Windows 11 Update
Are those Windows 11 updates bugging you? Well, you’re in luck. This article will show you how to stop Windows 11 updates easily. You’ll follow a few simple steps to pause or completely disable those updates on your computer. Let’s dive in.
How to Stop Windows 11 Update
Stopping Windows 11 updates can be handy if you want to avoid disruptions or save data. These steps will guide you through the process of halting updates for good.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
First, open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I.
The Settings app is where you control most things on your computer. Getting familiar with it will help you manage updates and other settings more efficiently.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
In the Settings app, click on "Update & Security."
This section is specifically for managing updates and security features. Here, you can see your update history, change active hours, and more.
Step 3: Choose Advanced Options
Under "Update & Security," click on "Advanced options."
The Advanced options let you customize how updates are installed on your computer. This is where you get more control over the update process.
Step 4: Pause Updates
Scroll down to the "Pause updates" section and toggle the switch to pause updates.
Pausing updates will temporarily stop Windows 11 from installing new updates. You can choose to pause updates for up to 35 days. After that, you’ll need to allow updates before you can pause them again.
Step 5: Disable Windows Update Service (Optional)
For a more permanent solution, type "services.msc" in the Start menu search bar and open the Services app. Find "Windows Update," right-click it, and select "Properties." Set the startup type to "Disabled."
Disabling the Windows Update service will completely stop updates from being downloaded and installed. This option is more extreme and might leave your computer vulnerable to security risks.
After completing these steps, Windows 11 will stop downloading and installing updates, giving you peace of mind.
Tips for Stopping Windows 11 Update
- Check Active Hours: Set active hours in the Update & Security settings to avoid updates during your most productive times.
- Use Metered Connection: Set your internet connection to metered to limit background data usage, which can also delay updates.
- Keep Essential Updates: Be selective and install security updates manually to keep your system safe.
- Use Group Policy Editor: For advanced users, the Group Policy Editor can offer more control over updates.
- Monitor Update History: Regularly check your update history to understand what updates have been paused or missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stopping updates make my computer vulnerable?
Yes, disabling all updates can leave your system open to security risks. It’s best to install critical updates manually.
How long can I pause updates?
You can pause updates for up to 35 days. After that, you need to allow updates before pausing them again.
Will this affect my current updates?
No, stopping updates will only prevent new updates from being downloaded. Any updates already installed will remain.
Can I resume updates at any time?
Yes, simply go back to the Update & Security settings and toggle the pause switch off to resume updates.
What if I change my mind?
You can reverse any changes by following the same steps and re-enabling the update settings.
Summary
- Open Settings app.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Choose Advanced Options.
- Pause Updates.
- Disable Windows Update Service (Optional).
Conclusion
Stopping Windows 11 updates can be a lifesaver when you need to avoid disruptions, save data, or take control over what gets installed on your machine. While pausing updates offers a temporary solution, disabling the Windows Update service provides a more permanent fix. However, always consider the security implications; some updates are crucial for safeguarding your data and system.
Whether you choose to pause updates or disable the service entirely, the steps outlined above make the process straightforward. Keep an eye on your system’s performance and security, and make adjustments as needed. Bookmark this guide for future reference and share it with anyone else who might find it useful. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.