The safest way to stop Windows from updating is to pause updates. In Windows 11, go to Settings > Windows Update and choose a length from the Pause updates menu, up to five weeks. In Windows 10, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options and pick a date under Pause updates. To stop updates from interrupting you without pausing them, set active hours or mark your connection as metered.
Turning off updates completely isn’t recommended, because updates fix security holes that attackers actively exploit. Below are safe ways to control when updates happen, and the more permanent options for advanced users.
Method 1: Pause updates
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Windows 11: click Windows Update and choose a time from the Pause updates dropdown. Windows 10: click Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options, then choose a date under Pause updates.
When the pause ends, Windows installs pending updates before you can pause again.
Method 2: Set active hours
Active hours stop Windows from restarting while you’re usually using your PC. Go to Windows Update > Advanced options > Active hours and set them manually or let Windows adjust them automatically.
Method 3: Use a metered connection
- Go to Settings > Network & internet and open your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection’s properties.
- Turn on Metered connection.
Windows downloads fewer updates on metered connections, though it may still download critical security updates. Make sure Download updates over metered connections is off in Windows Update’s advanced options.
Method 4: Group Policy (Pro, Enterprise, Education)
- Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
- Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update (in Windows 11, open Manage end user experience).
- Open Configure Automatic Updates, choose Enabled, and select 2 – Notify for download and auto install.
- Click OK.
Windows then asks before downloading updates, so you decide when they install. Remember to install them regularly.
What about disabling the Windows Update service?
Some guides suggest disabling the Windows Update service. Windows often turns it back on, and it can break other features like the Microsoft Store. It also leaves your PC without security fixes, so it’s best avoided.
Windows 10 note
Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025. If you’re still using it, keep security updates flowing through Extended Security Updates for as long as they’re available.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I pause Windows updates?
Up to five weeks at a time on Windows 10 and 11 Home and Pro. After that, you must install updates before pausing again.
Can I stop a specific update?
Yes. After uninstalling it from Update history > Uninstall updates, you can hide it with Microsoft’s “Show or hide updates” troubleshooter, if still available, or with PowerShell tools like PSWindowsUpdate.
Why does Windows update without asking?
Windows installs updates automatically by default to keep your PC secure. Active hours and pausing give you more control over timing.
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.