How to Stop Windows Updates Permanently

Windows updates can sometimes interrupt your work or slow down your computer. While it’s not recommended to disable updates permanently because they fix security issues and improve performance, some users prefer to have full control over updates. If you want to stop Windows updates completely, here are a few simple methods to do it. Please note that these steps are for advanced users, and you should proceed carefully.

Method 1: Disable Windows Update Service

The Windows Update service runs in the background to check for and install updates. You can stop it from running.

Steps:

1. Open the Services Window:

   • Press Windows + R keys to open the Run box.

   • Type services.msc and press Enter.

2. Find Windows Update:

   • Scroll down and look for "Windows Update" in the list.

   • Double-click on it to open its properties.

3. Stop the Service:

   • In the properties window, click the "Stop" button.

   • Change the "Startup type" to "Disabled" from the dropdown menu.

4. Save Changes:

   • Click "Apply" and then "OK."

   • Restart your computer to make sure the changes take effect.

This will stop the Windows Update service from running, preventing automatic updates.

Method 2: Use Group Policy Editor

If you have Windows Pro or Enterprise, you can use the Group Policy Editor to block updates.

Steps:

1. Open Group Policy Editor:

   • Press Windows + R to open the Run box.

   • Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.

2. Navigate to Windows Update Settings:

   • Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.

   • Look for "Configure Automatic Updates" and double-click it.

3. Disable Updates:

   • Select "Disabled" in the settings window.

   • Click "Apply" and then "OK."

4. Restart Your PC:

   • Restart your computer to apply the changes.

This method stops Windows from checking for updates automatically.

Method 3: Set a Metered Connection

Windows avoids downloading updates over a metered connection to save data. You can trick Windows into thinking your connection is metered.

Steps:

1. Open Settings:

   • Click the Start menu and select "Settings" (gear icon).

   • Go to Network & Internet.

2. Set as Metered Connection:

   • If you’re using Wi-Fi, click Wi-Fi and select your network.

   • Turn on the "Set as metered connection" option.

   • If you’re using Ethernet, go to Ethernet, select your connection, and turn on the metered option.

This will prevent Windows from downloading updates unless you manually allow it.

Method 4: Use Registry Editor

You can also disable updates by making changes in the Windows Registry. Be careful with this method, as incorrect changes can cause problems.

Steps:

1. Open Registry Editor:

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

2. Navigate to Windows Update Key:

   • Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\Auto Update.

3. Create or Modify a Value:

   • Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.

   • Name it AUOptions and set its value to 1.

4. Restart Your PC:

   • Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

This will stop automatic updates by changing how Windows handles them.

Method 5: Block Updates Using Third-Party Tools

There are tools like "Windows Update Blocker" that make it easy to disable updates with a single click. These tools are user-friendly and don’t require technical knowledge.

Steps:

1. Download a Trusted Tool:

   • Search for "Windows Update Blocker" online and download it from a reliable source.

   • Install the tool on your computer.

2. Disable Updates:

   • Open the tool and select the option to disable Windows updates.

   • Save the settings.

3. Check Regularly:

   • Some tools let you re-enable updates easily if you change your mind.

Make sure to download such tools from trusted websites to avoid malware.

Important Notes

• Security Risks: Disabling updates can leave your computer vulnerable to security threats. Only do this if you’re sure it’s necessary.

• Manual Updates: If you disable automatic updates, check for important security updates manually from time to time.

• Backup Your System: Before making changes, create a system restore point in case something goes wrong.

• Windows Version: Some methods may vary slightly depending on whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11.

By following these methods, you can stop Windows updates permanently. Choose the one that works best for you, but always weigh the risks of skipping updates.