How To Turn Off Automatic Updates Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

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4 min. read

Published on November 10, 2025

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Windows 10 automatic updates, while designed to keep your system secure and running smoothly, can sometimes be disruptive. Unexpected restarts, compatibility issues, and bandwidth consumption are common complaints. Understanding how to manage these updates gives you greater control over your computer’s performance and stability.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for disabling automatic updates in Windows 10. We’ll explore various methods, from using the Services app to tweaking the Registry Editor, allowing you to choose the approach that best suits your needs and technical expertise.

How Do I Stop Windows 10 From Automatically Updating?

Method 1: Using the Services App (Temporary Solution)

This method provides a temporary solution to disable automatic updates, as Windows may re-enable them after a while.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services app.
Scroll down and find “Windows Update” in the list of services.
Right-click on “Windows Update” and select “Properties”.
In the Properties window, go to the “General” tab.
In the “Startup type” dropdown menu, select “Disabled”.
Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

Method 2: Using Group Policy Editor (For Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education)

This method offers a more permanent solution, but it’s only available on specific Windows 10 editions.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
Navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
In the right pane, find and double-click “Configure Automatic Updates”.
In the “Configure Automatic Updates” window, select “Disabled”.
Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.

Method 3: Using Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

This method is for advanced users as incorrect modifications can damage your system. Back up your registry before proceeding.

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows.
Right-click on the “Windows” key, select “New”, and then “Key”.
Name the new key “WindowsUpdate”.
Right-click on the “WindowsUpdate” key, select “New”, and then “Key”.
Name the new key “AU”.
Right-click on the “AU” key, select “New”, and then “DWORD (32-bit) Value”.
Name the new DWORD “NoAutoUpdate”.
Double-click on “NoAutoUpdate” and set its value to “1”.
Click “OK” and close the Registry Editor.

Method 4: Metered Connection (For Wi-Fi Networks)

Setting your Wi-Fi connection as metered can limit data usage and, in turn, postpone updates.

Click the Start button and select Settings.
Click Network & Internet.
Select Wi-Fi from the left pane.
Click on the name of your Wi-Fi network.
Scroll down and toggle the “Set as metered connection” option to On.

Tips

Regularly check for updates manually to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
Consider scheduling updates for times when you’re not actively using your computer.
Be aware that disabling updates for extended periods can leave your system vulnerable to security threats.

Comparing Methods

Feature	Services App	Group Policy Editor	Registry Editor	Metered Connection
Windows Editions	All	Pro, Enterprise, Edu	All	All
Permanence	Temporary	More Permanent	More Permanent	Temporary
Difficulty	Easy	Moderate	Advanced	Easy
Data Usage Control	No	No	No	Yes
Requires Restart	No	Potentially	Potentially	No

Controlling Windows 10 Updates, Your Way

By using one of the methods described above, you can take control of how and when Windows 10 updates are installed, ensuring a smoother and more predictable computing experience. Remember to weigh the benefits of disabling automatic updates against the importance of security and system stability.

FAQ

How long can I disable Windows 10 updates? You can disable updates indefinitely using the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor methods, but it’s not recommended for security reasons.

Will disabling updates affect my computer’s performance? Disabling updates might prevent unexpected restarts and slowdowns, but it can also leave your system vulnerable to security threats.

Can I manually check for updates if I disable automatic updates? Yes, you can still manually check for updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking “Check for updates”.

Is it safe to use the Registry Editor? Using the Registry Editor can be risky if you make incorrect changes. Always back up your registry before making any modifications.

Does setting a metered connection completely stop updates? No, setting a metered connection only postpones updates. Windows will eventually download and install updates, even on a metered connection, but it will try to minimize data usage.