By default, Windows 11 automatically sends updates to all devices to guarantee optimal performance, reliability, and security. However, these updates require an automatic reboot, which can be time-consuming and may lead to several system-related problems. As a result, many users are curious about whether there is a method to pause or completely turn off automatic updates to avoid disruptions in their daily work.
In this guide, we’ll cover the seven effective methods to disable or pause automatic updates on Windows 11.
Table of Contents
- Method 1: Pause Updates via Settings
- Method 2: Mark Your Connection as Metered
- Method 3: Control Updates via Group Policy
- Method 4: Turn Off the Windows Update Service
- Method 5: Modify the Registry
- Method 6: Rely on Third-Party Tools
- Method 7: Schedule Restarts Instead of Fully Disabling Windows 11 Updates
- Disabling Windows 11 Updates: Pros & Cons
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Method 1: Pause Updates via Settings
This method provides the easiest way to temporarily stop updates for up to 5 weeks.
Navigate to Settings > Windows Update and select the option to pause updates. You can extend this pause in weekly increments for up to five weeks.
After the 5-week pause period, updates will resume automatically.
If you need to quickly and safely turn off automatic Windows updates on a remote PC, tools like SetMe make remote access seamless. SetMe provides an easy and secure way to connect to any Windows computer in just 3 steps and control the device as if you were on-site.
Method 2: Mark Your Connection as Metered
Instead of letting Windows treat your internet as unlimited, you can label it as metered. This works because Windows assumes metered connections have limited data, so it restricts non-essential downloads like updates.
- Open Settings > Network & Internet.
- Choose your active connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
- Turn on Set as metered connection.
This method is particularly useful if you’re on a limited data plan or using mobile hotspots.
Method 3: Control Updates via Group Policy (Pro/Enterprise only)
For users running Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, the Group Policy Editor provides detailed control over update behavior.
- Press Win+R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
- Go to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage end user experience.
- Open Configure Automatic Updates, set to Disabled, and apply the changes.
Once set, Windows will no longer automatically push or install updates.
Method 4: Turn Off the Windows Update Service
Disabling the update service stops the system from searching for or installing updates. Use this method carefully, since it completely halts the update mechanism until you turn it back on.
- Press Win+R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Find Windows Update in the list.
- Right-click, choose Properties, set Startup type to Disabled, and click Stop.
- Save with Apply > OK.
This is an aggressive approach, and you’ll need to re-enable the service later to receive updates.
Method 5: Modify the Registry (Advanced Users)
If you’re comfortable editing the Registry, you can add a value to prevent automatic Windows 11 updates.
- Open the Run dialog (Win+R), type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU
- Create the folder path if it doesn’t exist.
- Add a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named: NoAutoUpdate
- Set its value to 1 and restart your computer.
Method 6: Rely on Third-Party Tools (Use with Caution)
Some admins and advanced users may rely on apps like Windows Update Blocker. Keep in mind that these are unofficial tools. Exercise caution when using them and download only from trusted sources.
Method 7: Schedule Restarts Instead of Fully Disabling Windows 11 Updates
If you don’t want to stop updates but simply want more control over when your PC restarts, you can adjust the restart settings.
- Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Enable Notify me when a restart is required.
- Adjust Active hours to block reboots during a specific time.
This way, updates will still install, but you choose when your system restarts.
Disabling Windows 11 Updates: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- No unexpected reboots.
- Ability to manage the timing of updates.
- Avoid issues caused by faulty updates disrupting applications.
Cons:
- Potential security vulnerabilities if updates are postponed.
- Loss of access to new features and critical fixes.
- Certain approaches (like disabling services) could hinder future updates.
FAQ: Disabling Windows 11 Automatic Updates
Q: Can I permanently disable updates in Windows 11?
It is possible to disable updates through advanced settings like Group Policy or Registry modifications, though Microsoft may reinstate update functions during future system patches.
Q: Is it safe to stop updates?
Disabling updates temporarily is generally fine, but leaving your device unpatched for extended periods increases exposure to security threats.
Q: Can I stop updates on Windows 11 Home edition?
Yes, but options like Group Policy aren’t available. Try pausing updates, or use Metered Connection instead.
Conclusion
Disabling automatic updates in Windows 11 can be done in many ways: from simple pauses in Settings to advanced registry hacks. If you’re a casual user looking for short-term control, Pause Updates or Metered Connection may be enough. For IT admins who need complete control, Group Policy or disabling the update service works best.
But whether you’re a casual user or an IT pro, there’s an easier way to manage it all remotely: with SetMe, you can instantly control updates (and everything else) on remote PCs as if you were right there in front of the machine.