How to Disable Windows 10 Automatic Updates

Why would you want to disable Windows 10 automatic updates? No doubt, these updates are essential for system stability. Updates also add new Windows features and enhancements.

Automatic PC updates save you from manual upgrades, but they can be inconvenient. While working, automated updates may interrupt and require a restart to install. Updates can also cause PC issues rather than repair them.

Users report major troubles with Windows feature updates, forcing Microsoft to rush solutions. However, automated updates limit your patch installation options.

Luckily, Windows 10 lets you pause automatic updates for up to 35 days or disable them altogether to install them manually.

Our article below explains both methods and how to use a free program to turn off automatic updates with a click. Check out our Windows 11 guide to disabling automatic updates.

How to Pause Updates

Disabling Windows 10 automatic updates permanently may cause security and stability issues, so you may opt to “pause” them for later.

The method is here. Be sure to log in as an administrator for all these tasks.

1. Open the Settings app in Windows 10 by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon. When the Settings window opens, click Update & security.

2. Select Windows Update in the left-hand menu. To turn off automatic updates for one week, click the Pause updates for 7 days option.

3. Windows 10 will tell you the date that updates will start again. To turn them back on manually before then, click Resume updates.

4. If you think that seven days is too short a period to pause automatic updates, click Advanced options instead.

Scroll down to Pause updates and select a date from the Pause until drop-down menu. This date can be up to 35 days into the future.

Once you reach that date, you’ll need to install the latest Windows updates before you can pause them again.

Disable Updates for Good

You can disable Windows 10 automatic updates permanently or until you’re ready to apply them manually if you’re willing to leave your PC unprotected. The method is here.

1. Press the Windows key and R to open the Run box. Type “services.msc” and click OK, or press Enter.

2. When the Services window opens, scroll down to the Windows Update entry. Right-click this and choose Properties.

3. Select Disabled from the Startup type drop-down menu, then click Stop in the Service status section below. Click OK or Apply to disable automatic Windows updates.

4. If permanently disabling updates seems too extreme, select Manual from the Startup type menu instead.

5. You can now check for and install updates manually. Just go to Settings > Update & security > Windows Update and click Check for updates.

Use Windows Update Blocker

You can avoid having to tweak Windows settings every time you want to turn automatic updates on or off by installing a free program called Windows Update Blocker. Here’s how to use it.

1. Download Windows Update Blocker. 

2. Right-click the downloaded file and scan the file with your antivirus software.

3. Extract and run the program. It doesn’t require installation.

4. When the program opens, simply click Disable Updates and choose Apply Now. 

This will instantly turn off automatic updates in Windows 10, and the Service Status shield will change from a green tick to a red cross.

5. To turn automatic updates back on, just select Enable Updates and click “Apply Now.”

Click Menu and pick Update Options to enter Windows Update settings and test Windows Update Blocker. Check or disable automatic Windows updates here.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Disable Windows 10 Automatic Updates

Q: Why would I want to disable Windows 10 automatic updates?

A: There are several reasons, including preventing unexpected restarts, conserving bandwidth, or maintaining control over when updates are installed.

Q: Is it safe to disable automatic updates?

A: Disabling automatic updates can potentially leave your system vulnerable to security threats. It’s generally recommended to keep your system updated.

Q: How can I temporarily pause Windows updates?

A: You can pause updates for up to 35 days through the Windows Update settings.

Q: Can I permanently disable automatic updates?

A: While there are methods to disable automatic updates, it’s not recommended. You can use Group Policy Editor (for Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions) or modify the Windows Update service.

Q: Will disabling automatic updates affect other system functions?

A: Disabling automatic updates might affect system performance and security, as updates often include critical patches.

Q: What are the risks of disabling automatic updates?

A: Disabling automatic updates can leave your system vulnerable to security threats, as updates often include critical patches.

Q: How can I ensure my system is protected without automatic updates?

A: Manually checking for updates regularly and installing them promptly is essential. Additionally, using reliable antivirus software is recommended.

Q: Will disabling automatic updates affect other Microsoft services?

A: Disabling automatic updates might impact other Microsoft services that rely on updates for proper functioning.

Disclaimer: Disabling automatic updates is not recommended as it can compromise system security. It’s advisable to carefully consider the potential risks before proceeding.