How to Stop Windows 11 Update in Windows 10 – So, let’s be honest. If you’re here, then you’re probably tired of Windows 11 updates popping up out of nowhere. Although Microsoft keeps pushing the upgrade, you may not want to switch. Since I faced the same struggle, I decided to find every possible way to block Windows 11 updates. Because of that, I will share my experience, and you can follow along easily!
1. Pause Windows Update (Easy but Temporary)
Since this is the simplest method, you should try this first. Because it only delays updates, you will need to repeat the process when necessary. So, follow these steps:
- Open Settings (Win + I) → Click Update & Security
- Select Windows Update
- Click Pause Updates for 7 Days (repeat if needed)
- Open Advanced Options → Choose a date to extend the pause
Because this method only works temporarily, you should consider other options. Since Windows 11 updates keep coming back, you will need something stronger.
2. Use Group Policy Editor (For Windows 10 Pro & Enterprise)
If you use Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise, you can block updates through the Group Policy Editor. Because this method directly tells Windows which version to keep, it works effectively. Since I used this method myself, I can confirm that it works. So, follow these steps:
- Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter - Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update
- Double-click “Select the Target Feature Update Version”
- Enable it and enter Windows 10 as the version
- Click Apply, then restart your PC
Because this method works at the system level, Windows 11 updates will no longer install automatically. Since this has saved my PC, I highly recommend it!
3. Modify Registry Editor (For All Versions of Windows 10)
Because Windows 10 Home lacks Group Policy Editor, you can use Registry Editor instead. Although editing the registry can be risky, this method works perfectly. Since I used it without any issues, I can confidently guide you through it. So, follow these steps carefully:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, and press Enter - Navigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate - Right-click → New → DWORD (32-bit) Value → Name it TargetReleaseVersion
- Set the value to 1
- Create another String Value named TargetReleaseVersionInfo and set it to “21H2” (or the latest Windows 10 version)
- Restart your PC
Because this method directly controls update settings, Windows 11 will no longer install. Since I have tested it myself, I can guarantee that it works!
4. Disable Windows Update Service (Hardcore Mode)
If you want to completely stop Windows updates, then disabling the Windows Update Service is the best option. Since this prevents Windows from checking for updates, it effectively blocks them. So, follow these steps:
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter - Locate Windows Update
- Right-click → Properties
- Set Startup Type: Disabled
- Click Stop → Apply → OK
Since this method completely blocks updates, you will need to manually install security patches. Because of that, you should use this method only if necessary.
5. Use a Metered Connection (Sneaky Trick)
If you want a simple way to limit updates, then setting your connection to metered will help. Because Windows 10 avoids downloading large updates on metered networks, this method delays updates significantly. So, follow these steps:
- Open Settings → Network & Internet
- Select Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- Click Properties
- Enable Set as Metered Connection
Since Windows 10 prioritizes saving data, this trick prevents automatic updates. Because of that, you can use this as a secondary method to control updates.
6. Use Third-Party Tools (Because Microsoft Won’t Listen)
Because Microsoft does not provide an official way to block Windows 11, third-party tools are extremely useful. Since I have tested them, I can confirm that they work. So, try one of these tools:
- StopUpdates10 – Disables Windows updates completely
- Winaero Tweaker – Provides advanced customization options
- O&O ShutUp10 – Controls privacy and update settings
Since these tools offer a simple interface, you can easily manage Windows updates. Because they work efficiently, you will no longer receive unwanted updates.
7. Rolling Back to Windows 10 (If It’s Too Late)
If you accidentally upgraded to Windows 11, then you still have a way back. Since Windows keeps the old version for 10 days, you can roll back easily. So, follow these steps:
- Open Settings → Update & Security → Recovery
- Click Go back to Windows 10
- Follow the on-screen instructions
Because this option disappears after 10 days, you should act quickly. If too much time has passed, then you will need to reinstall Windows 10 manually.
8. Prevent Future Windows 11 Updates (Big Brain Moves)
If you never want Windows 11, then you need to take extra precautions. Because Microsoft keeps pushing updates, you should try these additional steps:
- Disable TPM 2.0 & Secure Boot – Since some updates require these, disabling them helps
- Use an older Windows 10 ISO – Because newer versions push Windows 11, reinstalling an older version prevents it
Since these methods require advanced knowledge, you should use them carefully. Because of that, they should be a last resort.
Also Read: How to Check Laptop Temperature Windows 11 & Fix Overheat!
FAQs: How to Stop Windows 11 Update in Windows 10
1. Can I permanently stop Windows 11 updates?
Yes! Because Group Policy, Registry Editor, or disabling Windows Update Service directly control updates, they work permanently.
2. What happens if I disable Windows Update Service?
Since this completely stops updates, you will no longer receive security patches. Because of that, you should only use this method if necessary.
3. Will setting a metered connection stop all updates?
No, but since Windows 10 avoids large updates on metered networks, this significantly reduces automatic downloads.
4. What if I already upgraded to Windows 11?
Because Windows 10 remains available for 10 days, you can roll back through the Recovery option. If that period has passed, then you must reinstall manually.
5. Do third-party tools really work?
Yes! Since apps like StopUpdates10 directly disable update services, they work effectively.
Because these methods have saved my PC, I know they will help you too! So, try them and keep your system the way you want it!
