First thing first you should not ever disable your Windows update for obvious reasons. However, sometimes it can so happen that you just have to do it. And for those with a limited Internet connection, it can be very useful. Not only people with limited Internet Windows Insiders might sometimes also want to press a pause button on the Windows update. Whatever is case let me come straight to the point, so basically there are three ways you can disable the Windows update permanently. Below is the list and how to perform them.
Set as metered connection
This is probably the best solution if you are looking for an easy way to disable the Windows update. Just head over to Settings-> Go to Network & Internet-> Click on Change connection properties. Down below you have the Set as metered connection toggle. You need to switch it on. However, this won’t stop Windows checking for updates but it will ask for a permission before it further proceeds with the download. If you don’t respond, you are safe.
Disable Windows Update
This is the most effective way to disable your Windows update for good. Just go to the Windows search and type services.msc and open the app, look for Windows Update down below. Double Click on Windows Update and set Startup type ‘Disabled’.
Registry Editor
Playing with the registry editor is not recommended if you don’t are not that computer savvy. But even if you not that advanced, you can do disable Windows update by carefully performing the following the methods.
1. Use the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut to open the Run command.
2. Type regedit, and click OK to open the Registry.
3.Browse the following path:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
4. Right-click the Windows (folder) key, select New, and then click Key.
5. Name the new key WindowsUpdate and press Enter.
6. Right-click the newly created key, select new, and click Key.
7. Name the new key AU and press Enter.
Inside the newly created key, right-click on the right side, select New, and click on DWORD (32-bit) Value.
8. Name the new key AUOptions and press Enter.
Double-click the newly created key and change its value to 2. It’s for “Notify for download and notify for install”. Click OK.
9. Close the Registry to complete the task.
