How to prevent Windows Update

Simple ways for Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista and XP.

Thanks to the automatic update system receives fix software bugs, protection against found vulnerabilities and new features. Therefore, it is not recommended to disable.

On the other hand, auto-update can occur at an inconvenient time and distract you from your work. And if you do not have a licensed version of Windows, and questionable build, the next update can break the entire system. In such cases, the automatic update is better to turn off for a while or even permanently. To do this, there are the following methods.

Method 1. Through the manager of system services

This method is the most simple and suitable for all - except for the oldest - Windows: frequently from 10 to XP.

To use it, open the "Run» (Windows + R key), copy box services.msc and click OK. When the service manager, scroll down to the bottom of the list and double-click the service "Update Windows». Then change the type of its launch to "Disabled" and click OK.

Changes will take effect when you restart the computer. If you want to re-enable updates, repeat the steps above, select the type of start the "Automatic" or "Manual".

Method 2. Through the center upgrade

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

Although Microsoft has discontinued support for Windows Vista and XP and, most likely, will not update them, just in case we give instructions for these versions.

Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7

With the search for "Windows Update" using the system search. Or open it via the "Control Panel". Then click "Customize settings" and in the list of "Critical Updates" select "Never check for updates." Remove the checkbox "Get recommended updates the same way, as well as important updates" and click OK.

Windows Vista

Go to "Start» → «Control Panel» → «security» → «Update Windows». Then click "Setting" and select the "Do not check for updates." Uncheck "Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying me about updates" and click OK.

Windows XP

Go to "Start» → «Control Panel» → «Automatic Updates." Check "Turn off Automatic Updates" and click OK.

See also:

• What should I do if Windows 10 hangs when updating →
• How to put a password on a folder in Windows or MacOS →
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