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How to Stop Windows Updates in Windows 10

Some say that for one thing Microsoft gives, it takes something away. With Windows 8, the most controversial thing Microsoft did was to remove the Start menu for a Start screen that was better for touch users. Windows 10, the company's latest operating system, added the Start Screen and arguably did something more controversial. You may have noticed that your Windows 10 PC always seems to install updates and patches. There's no way to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10. At least there wasn't until recently.

Microsoft plans to start rolling out the Windows 10 Creators Update soon. There are some cool features that are hidden in the software refresh. Some of the apps have new options and features. Cortana voice commands can be used to shut down your PC or start listening to music. Arguably the most important new feature included in the Windows 10 Creators Update is the ability to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10.



 


Here's how to temporarily stop Windows Updates in Windows 10.

Aiming to keep as many PCs running the current version of Windows as possible, this feature won't stop you from getting new updates forever, but it will help you avoid big updates while you're working on a project or in situations where you just can't be bothered to worry about Windows updates.

Here's how to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10.

How to Stop Windows Updates in Windows 10: What is a Windows Update?

Before you start stopping Windows updates in Windows 10, you should fully understand what Windows updates are. You need to understand exactly what you are preventing from reaching your machine.

Windows updates range from small code tweaks to large code tweaks that get installed on your PC after Windows is set up. Sometimes these updates are so small that they can be downloaded in minutes. These are usually updates and security patches. Microsoft makes them available at regular intervals. Sometimes you will get driver updates as part of a Windows Update package. These driver updates are designed to improve the functioning of the hardware inside your PC. Sometimes they fix issues caused by other updates.

Then there are the bigger updates. This is probably why you want to try stopping Windows Updates in Windows 10. These larger updates can add features and remove features. They can give your PC new features and introduce options that make it more energy efficient. In some cases, they can also break your PC or a specific feature that you enjoy.

Generally speaking, it's a bad idea to stop Windows Updates because you might miss a security patch or driver update that makes your computer more secure or more reliable. That being said, sometimes you are comfortable with what you have. There are times when finding a power outlet and shutting down whatever you're doing to manage Windows updates just isn't practical.

How to Stop Windows Updates in Windows 10: The Creators Update

The Windows 10 Creators Update is the third major Windows 10 update since 2015. It gives everyone, not just businesses, the ability to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10. the moment you use the button, you are on borrowed time. Microsoft will let you pause Windows Updates in Windows 10, but not stop them completely.

Once toggled, the switch to stop Windows updates in Windows 10 will remain toggled for an entire week. You have the option to go back and reactivate them at any time during this pause. After a week, Windows 10 will re-enable Windows Updates. This will force you to perform any pending updates before you can disable them again for another week.

To be clear, Microsoft is trying to provide functionality that users clearly want while achieving its goal of keeping most users on the latest version.

How to Stop Windows Updates in Windows 10

Open your device's Start screen or Start menu by tapping or clicking the Windows button on the taskbar. You can also press the Windows button on your keyboard.

From the Start screen or Start menu, tap or click the cog in the lower left corner of your screen. This shortcut opens the Settings app. You can also search for the Settings app in the search bar built into the taskbar.

Tap or click .

The first thing you should see is the Windows Update area. On the right is a list of updates that need to be installed, if any. You will also see a notice here if it's time to restart your PC due to a pending update that has already been installed. If you're ok with the updates you already see listed, let them finish installing and come back here after your PC restarts.

When you're ready to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10, tap or click the link.

Now look for the switch in the center of your screen which is labeled . If you're sure you want to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10 for a full week, tap or click the switch. Take note of the date listed under the switch. This is the day when your Windows 10 PC will automatically re-enable updates.

Good luck trying to stop Windows Updates in Windows 10. It's a temporary band-aid, but hopefully it gives you the option to delay updates until they're more convenient for you. you and your device.