Disabling Windows updates might sound like a bad idea, but in some situations, it keeps the system from installing updates at inconvenient times—like right before a big project or when you’re about to leave. It’s a way to regain some control, especially if automatic updates cause restarts or slow down your workflow. Just be aware that turning off updates also means missing out on security patches, so it’s kinda a balancing act.
This guide walks through how to disable Windows Updates using the Services app, which is a pretty straightforward method. It’s not foolproof—Windows can sometimes re-enable the service after updates or system resets—but for temporary control, it works. If you want a more permanent or advanced method, you might explore group policies or registry edits, but that’s for later.
How to Disable Windows Updates
Accessing the Services Tool for Quick Control
Why it helps: Disabling the Windows Update service stops Windows from checking or installing updates automatically. When you notice your PC is restarting unexpectedly or you’re just tired of the update nag, this comes in handy. It applies when you want a quick pause, especially before a big presentation or gaming session. Expect it to cut off auto-updates immediately—your Windows won’t download or install patches unless you turn the service back on. On some machines, this may require a reboot to fully take effect, and it might get reset after certain updates, so keep that in mind.
Steps:
- Press Windows key + R to bring up the Run dialog.
- Type
services.mscand hit Enter. This opens the Services window, a list of all kinds of background processes. - Scroll down to find Windows Update. It usually sits near the bottom, but the list can be long.
- Right-click on Windows Update, then pick Properties. You’ll see a window with the service’s status and startup options.
- Under Startup type, select Disabled. Then click Stop if the button isn’t grayed out. Confirm with OK.
Pro tip: Disabling this service doesn’t just stop Windows from updating; it also disables related services like Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS), which could help if updates are hanging or causing errors. Just keep in mind this isn’t a forever fix—Windows might prompt you to turn updates back on after a while. On one setup, it worked for a few days before Windows automatically turned the service back on after a forced update, so it’s kinda fleeting unless you take more advanced steps.
Adjusting the Settings for a More Controlled Approach
Why it helps: Sometimes outright disabling the service is too blunt. If you want more finesse, you can change the startup options to manual or set active hours to avoid automatic restarts. This way, Windows will check for updates but won’t install them or restart your PC at random times.
- Follow the same steps as above to reach Windows Update in Services.
- Change Startup type from Disabled to Manual or Automatic (Delayed Start). Manual means you can start it when ready.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options to set active hours, schedule restart times, or pause updates for a set period.
Not exactly perfect, but it keeps Windows from being totally stubborn, plus you get delayed updates without losing control completely. Especially useful if security patches are critical, but updates are just inconvenient right now.
Extra Tweaks and Things to Watch Out For
- Some updates or Windows resets might re-enable the service, so check back if updates suddenly start downloading again.
- In enterprise setups or with some third-party management tools, this method might be overridden—so if you’re on a work PC, check with IT.
- For total control, you can also explore setting group policies or editing registry keys, but that’s a bit more involved and not recommended unless you’re comfortable with those tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I disable updates temporarily without risking security?
Yeah, but it’s a double-edged sword. Disabling the update service stops automatic security patches, which can leave your system vulnerable. It’s best to re-enable updates soon after the immediate need passes.
Re-enabling Windows Updates is easy, right?
Definitely. Just go back to services.msc, find Windows Update, change the Startup type to Automatic or Manual, then restart your PC or start the service manually from the same window.
Can I just schedule updates instead of turning them off?
Yep, Windows 10/11 lets you set your active hours in Settings > Windows Update > Change active hours. Plus, you can defer feature or quality updates if you have the Pro version, using group policy or Windows Update for Business.
What if I want to block updates for specific apps or drivers?
That’s trickier. Windows Update generally pushes patches for the OS, but for individual apps, check their built-in update settings. For drivers, you can block driver updates in Device Manager or via Group Policy.
Summary
- Open Run using Windows key + R and type
services.msc. - Scroll to Windows Update and open its properties.
- Set Startup type to Disabled and stop the service.
- Remember, Windows may reset this after updates or restarts, so keep an eye on it if needed.
Wrap-up
Disabling Windows Updates isn’t a magic fix, but it gives some breathing room when updates come at the worst moment. Just don’t forget to periodically check for updates manually or re-enable the service when security patches are out. On one machine, I found that turning it off saved me from random restarts perfect for a few days, but I had to turn it back on ahead of a big Windows update to avoid breaking stuff. Seems like Windows still has a way of sneaking past your controls sometimes, but at least this steps will make it a little less impolite about it. Fingers crossed, this helps a few folks get a bit more peace of mind.”