Automatic Windows Updates are a good way to keep Microsoft operating systems up to date. The problem is that they have become them over the years “high risk exercise”. If you want to reduce bugs and prevent your computer from being out of the game, we must continue to recommend avoiding software deliveries that Microsoft “gives us” until its stability has been verified.

Microsoft continues to pile up failed software updates, and the final and “stable” version of Windows 11 24H2 was no exception. A version that promised to be a turning point in terms of improving system adoption (both due to new features and Windows 10 entering the last year of its life cycle) and that It arrived full of bugs, some very serious. disturbing. And even more so considering that the same version already had to be pulled in June due to bugs and the Recall fiasco.

If the general recommendation for all types of software is to keep it updated with the latest code, especially for security reasons to avoid exploiting its vulnerabilities, the reality of Windows invites us to use a different type of strategy: wait and see. And Microsoft’s history of delivering updates is simply disastrous, so it fits delay installationat least “feature” updates, “quality” or general all-inclusive versions like the one available.

How to Disable Windows Automatic Updates (Permanently)

There are ways to delay quality and feature updates without affecting security updates, which will continue to be installed through monthly patches or emergency patches if necessary. This is very easy using the Windows Update function in the operating system settings.

But it is only a temporary postponement. Once the time limit is reached, you will need to install the latest updates to pause updates again. There are other more advanced methods that use the Windows Registry to delay feature updates for up to 365 days, or the Group Policy Editor, an internal tool widely used by IT administrators that allows more control over computer operations, including update management.

AND there is a more radical variant using “Group Policy” to permanently disable Windows automatic updates. If, like us, you don’t trust Microsoft’s unsatisfactory software delivery at all, or you use the device for production and can’t afford the slightest risk, this is the best choice. Also very easy to use:

• Enter the services section. For example, by entering “service” in the search field. Or using the ‘services.msc’ command from the run function (Windows + R).

• Search for “Windows Update” in local services.
• Right click and open its properties.
• Under General > Startup Type, mark it as Disabled.

And that’s all. Simply restart your computer for the changes to take effect. Windows Update will not work automatically and you will get rid of its errors. Of course, this option is completely reversible when you consider it, and is more powerful than just taking a break for a few days, which is usually insufficient due to Microsoft’s inability to fix problems.

More information | All options for delaying Windows updates