You can stop Windows from updating automatically for a while by pausing updates. In Windows 11, go to Settings > Windows Update and choose how long to pause, up to five weeks. In Windows 10, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Pause updates for 7 days, or pick a date up to 35 days out under Advanced options. Windows then installs pending updates before you can pause again, so updates can be delayed but not skipped forever on Home editions.
Keeping updates off for long periods leaves your PC open to security problems, so pause only as long as you need. Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Settings > Windows Update > Pause updates > choose 1 to 5 weeks (Windows 11) or up to 35 days (Windows 10).
Pause Updates
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Go to Windows Update (Windows 10: Update & Security > Windows Update).
- Next to Pause updates, choose a length. On Windows 10, use Advanced options to pick a date.
- To undo it, click Resume updates.
Other Ways to Control When Updates Happen
| Option | Where | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Active hours | Windows Update > Advanced options | Stops restarts during the hours you use the PC |
| Metered connection | Settings > Network & internet > your connection | Limits downloads on that network; some critical updates may still download |
| Restart notifications | Windows Update > Advanced options | Warns you before a restart |
| Group Policy (Pro and higher) | gpedit.msc > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update | Sets notify-only or scheduled installs |
| Driver updates | Advanced options > Optional updates | Lets you choose which drivers install |
Why Not Turn Updates Off Completely?
Disabling the update service or using registry tweaks can break Windows Update, Microsoft Store downloads, and security features, and Windows may re-enable it anyway. Pausing and scheduling are safer ways to stay in control.
Updates installing at odd hours? Check your time zone is correct.
Long downloads? You can also turn off sleep mode while they finish.
See also stopping an update that is already installing.
Troubleshooting
- Pause is grayed out: Your organization manages updates, or you’ve reached the maximum pause. Install pending updates, then pause again.
- An update keeps failing: Run Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update, then restart.
- Update restarted during a game: Set active hours to cover your gaming time.
- Program stopped working after an update? Use Update history > Uninstall updates to remove the latest one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop updates permanently on Windows 11 Home?
Not through supported settings. You can pause for up to five weeks at a time.
Does a metered connection stop all updates?
Mostly, but Windows may still download some critical updates.
Is it safe to delay updates?
For a few weeks, generally yes. Longer delays leave known security holes open.
Summary
- Pause updates in Settings > Windows Update.
- Set active hours to avoid surprise restarts.
- Use Group Policy on Pro for more control.
- Resume updates regularly to stay secure.
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.