DO NOT, Let Windows Do Any Updates, Pretty Much Ever, Here Is How

stock here: posting before testing, as it may help some people but not all

I did the first one, you have to go into properties (not just “stop”) as the disable feature is not avail on the first screen you see. Curious, I was not able to screen capture this window.

Also curious, a significant change to the format of Zerohedge.

If you want to completely stop Windows Update from prompting you or automatically installing updates, there are ways to control it. However, keep in mind that disabling updates might leave your system vulnerable to security risks. If you’re determined to stop it, here are some steps to manage or disable updates:

1. Disable Windows Update Service Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
   Scroll down to Windows Update, right-click it, and select Properties.
   In the Startup type dropdown, select Disabled.
   Click Stop, then OK.

This disables Windows Update entirely. However, it may be re-enabled by some major updates or changes in system settings.

2. Pause Updates Indefinitely Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   Select Pause updates for 7 days and extend this as many times as allowed (this is limited in duration).
   For indefinite control, you can tweak settings using Group Policy Editor (see below).
3. Use Group Policy Editor (Pro and Enterprise Editions) Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
   Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
   Find and double-click Configure Automatic Updates.
   Select Disabled, then OK.

Note: This works on Windows Pro/Enterprise but not Home edition.

4. Block Specific Updates Use Microsoft’s Show or Hide Updates Troubleshooter Tool to hide specific updates from being installed.
   Download the tool.
5. Edit the Registry (Advanced) Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
   Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named NoAutoUpdate and set it to 1.

Be cautious when editing the registry. Missteps can cause system issues.

6. Third-Party Tools Tools like Winaero Tweaker or StopUpdates10 can simplify the process of disabling updates and notifications.

By following these methods, you can take full control of updates and ensure Windows won’t prompt you again. Let me know if you want step-by-step guidance for any of these options!