How to Permanently Disable Automatic Updates in Windows 11

Windows 11 is designed to keep your system up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. However, automatic updates can sometimes disrupt your workflow, consume bandwidth, or introduce unwanted changes. If you’re looking to take control over when and how updates are installed, this guide will walk you through several methods to permanently disable automatic updates in Windows 11.

Before proceeding, it’s important to note that disabling updates can expose your system to security vulnerabilities. Ensure you have alternative measures in place to keep your system secure, such as manual updates or third-party security solutions.

Methods to Disable Automatic Updates

1. Disable Windows Update Service

This method stops the Windows Update service, preventing the system from checking for updates.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the Services window, scroll down to Windows Update.
4. Right-click on it and select Properties.
5. Under Startup type, choose Disabled.
6. Click Stop if the service is running, then click Apply and OK.

2. Use Group Policy Editor (Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise)

The Group Policy Editor allows you to configure update settings more granularly.

1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage end user experience.
3. Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates.
4. Select Disabled, then click Apply and OK.

3. Modify the Registry Editor

For Windows 11 Home users, the Registry Editor provides a way to disable updates.

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU.
3. If the WindowsUpdate and AU keys don’t exist, create them.
4. Within the AU key, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named NoAutoUpdate.
5. Set the value of NoAutoUpdate to 1.

4. Disable Update Orchestrator Service

The Update Orchestrator Service manages Windows Updates. Disabling it can prevent updates from being scheduled.

1. Open the Services window as described in Method 1.
2. Locate Update Orchestrator Service.
3. Right-click, select Properties, and set Startup type to Disabled.
4. Click Stop, then Apply and OK.

5. Disable Windows Update Medic Service

This service can re-enable Windows Update components. Disabling it adds an extra layer to prevent updates.

1. Open the Services window.
2. Find Windows Update Medic Service.
3. Right-click, select Properties, and set Startup type to Disabled.
4. Click Stop, then Apply and OK.

6. Use Metered Connection Settings

Setting your network connection as metered can limit the amount of data Windows uses, including updates.

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Select your network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
3. Toggle on Set as metered connection.

7. Pause Updates via Settings

While not permanent, this method allows you to pause updates for up to 5 weeks.

1. Navigate to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click on Pause updates and select the desired duration.

8. Use Third-Party Tools

Several third-party applications can help manage or disable Windows updates. Tools like EaseUS CleanGenius offer user-friendly interfaces to control update settings.

9. Schedule Updates Outside Active Hours

Adjusting active hours can prevent updates from occurring during your primary usage times.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Change active hours.
2. Set your active hours to the times you typically use your device.

10. Use the Windows Show or Hide Updates Tool

This Microsoft tool allows you to hide specific updates, preventing them from being installed.

1. Download the tool from Microsoft’s official website.
2. Run the tool and follow the prompts to hide unwanted updates.

11. Modify Task Scheduler Entries

Disabling tasks related to Windows Update in Task Scheduler can prevent automatic updates.

1. Press Win + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > WindowsUpdate.
3. Disable tasks related to automatic updates.

Disabling automatic updates in Windows 11 requires a combination of methods to ensure updates don’t resume unexpectedly. By following the steps outlined above, you can take control over your system’s update process, ensuring that updates occur only when you’re ready.

Remember, while disabling updates can prevent unwanted changes, it’s crucial to stay informed about security patches and system improvements. Regularly check for updates manually or consider setting reminders to ensure your system remains secure and up-to-date.