There’s a certain peace of mind that comes with knowing your Windows PC is automatically updating to stay secure and efficient. It’s like having a built-in assistant ensuring your system remains in top shape.
But what happens when that same update slows your computer to a crawl or, worse, crashes your system?
While Windows updates deliver critical security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements, they sometimes cause more harm than good—especially if your system lacks the necessary RAM or processing power to handle them smoothly. Instead of appreciating an optimized system, you may find yourself frustrated and searching for a way to regain control.
If you’ve ever had an update install at the worst possible moment, you’re not alone. The good news? You can disable automatic updates and decide when (or if) you want to install them.
How to Disable Windows Automatic Updates
One of the most effective ways to stop Windows from forcing updates is by disabling the Windows Update Service manually. Follow these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Open the Services Window
Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Step 2: Access Windows Update Services
Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services window. This menu lists all background processes running on your PC.
Step 3: Locate Windows Update Service
Scroll down until you find “Windows Update” in the list.
Step 4: Disable the Service
- Double-click on Windows Update to open its settings.
- In the Startup type dropdown menu, select Disabled.
- Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.
Conclusion
That’s it! You’ve now successfully disabled automatic Windows updates, ensuring your PC won’t suddenly slow down or restart at the most inconvenient times.
A Word of Caution
While this method prevents Windows from updating automatically, it also means you won’t receive important security patches that protect your system from cyber threats. To stay safe:
- Manually check for updates every few weeks to install critical security fixes.
- If you decide to re-enable updates, simply follow the same steps and select Manual or Automatic under Startup type.
Now, you’re in control of when and how your PC updates, so you can enjoy uninterrupted work and a smoother computing experience.
