How to disable updates on Windows 10 Pro

Windows updates can be helpful — until they interrupt your work, break compatibility, or trigger unwanted reboots. If you’re using Windows 10 Pro, you have more control than the average user. Here’s how to stop updates in their tracks without wrecking your system.

Option 1: Use Group Policy Editor (Best for Full Control)

1. Open Group Policy Editor
   Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
   Don’t see it? You’re likely on the Home edition. Here’s how to enable it:
   👉 How To Enable Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) In Windows 10/11 Home Edition
2. Navigate to the Windows Update Settings
   Go to:
   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage end user experience
3. Configure “Configure Automatic Updates”
   • Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates
   • Set it to Disabled or Enabled with your preferred setting (e.g., notify for download)
   • Click Apply, then OK
4. Reboot your PC
   Changes will take effect after a restart.

Option 2: Use Services to Stop the Update Service

If you want a brute-force method that halts updates entirely:

1. Open Services
   Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Windows Update
   Scroll down to Windows Update in the list.
3. Disable the Service
   • Double-click on Windows Update
   • Under “Startup type,” choose Disabled
   • Click Stop if the service is running
   • Hit Apply, then OK

Important: This disables the update system entirely. No updates, no patches. Be smart — enable it periodically to stay secure.

Option 3: Set a Metered Connection

This doesn’t turn off updates completely, but it stops most of them — especially large feature updates.

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi
2. Click your connected Wi-Fi network
3. Toggle on “Set as metered connection”

For Ethernet connections, this requires a registry tweak, but Wi-Fi users can do it right from Settings.

Final Word

Disabling updates has its risks — mainly missing out on security patches. If you’re managing a production machine or software that breaks with every Windows change, it can be a necessary trade-off. Just remember: disable smart, not forever.

Need help re-enabling updates later? Bookmark this page — or just shoot me a message.