How to disable Windows update

On the other hand, auto-updating can happen at an inconvenient moment and distract you from your work. And if you do not have a licensed version of Windows, but a dubious build, then the next update can break the entire system. In such cases, it is better to disable automatic updates for a while or even permanently. There are the following ways to do this.

Method 1. Through the system service manager

This method is the simplest and is suitable for all - except the oldest - versions of Windows: from 10 to XP.

To use it, open the Run window (Windows key + R), copy into the services.msc field and click OK. When the Service Manager opens, scroll down to the bottom of the list and double-click on the Windows Update service. Then change its startup type to Disabled and click OK.

The changes will take effect when you restart your computer. If you want to re-enable updates, repeat the above steps, choosing the startup type "Automatic" or "Manual".

Method 2. Via the update center

In Windows 8.1, 8, 7, Vista and XP, you can turn off the update in the control panel settings. Use this method if the previous one suddenly did not work for you (which is unlikely).

Although Microsoft has ended support for Windows Vista and XP and most likely won't update them, we'll provide instructions for those versions just in case.

Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7

Search your system for "Windows Update". Or open it through the "Control Panel". Then click "Configure settings" and in the list of "Important updates" select "Do not check for updates". Uncheck the box "Receive recommended updates in the same way as important updates" and click OK.

Windows Vista

Go to Start → Control Panel → Security → Windows Update. Then click on "Configure Settings" and check the "Do not check for updates" checkbox. Uncheck the box "Include recommended updates on download, installation and update notification" and click OK.