On Windows 10, cumulative updates are no longer optional, they’re mandatory, which means that they download and install automatically as soon as they’re ready. Although this new mechanism is a convenient approach to ensure that every device has the latest security patches, bug fixes, and improvements, it’s not an option that everyone likes. Also uploading these updates can result in exhausting the internet connection, and slowing down your computer.

If you have configured LUCI STUDIO as a server to be run 24/7 it might be a good idea to ensure these updates are no longer automatically.

If you have a computer running Windows 10 pro, it’s still possible to regain some of the control and stop automatic updates using the Local Group Policy Editor. You can either follow the Microsoft guidelines, or  follow this steps here:

Note: Although we’re outlining the steps to prevent your computer from getting updates, it’s important to make it clear that it’s never recommended to skip them. The reason is that updates are crucial to keeping Windows 10 running correctly and your data safe.

How to block automatic updates using Local Group Policy

If you’re running Windows 10 Pro (actually starting from Windows XP Professional Service Pack 1 and Windows 2000 Service Pack 3 ), you can use the Local Group Policy Editor to change the system settings to prevent your device from downloading and installing updates automatically . Here’s how:

1. Use the Windows key + R keyboard shortcut to open the “Run” command.
2. Write gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Browse the following path:Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Windows Update
4. On the right side, double-click the Configure Automatic Updates policy.
5. Check the Disabled option to turn off the policy.
6. Click the Apply button.
7. Click the OK button.

Once you’ve completed the steps, Windows 10 will no longer download updates automatically, which can also save data when using a metered internet connection, and any future updates must be downloaded and installed manually from Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Alternative automatic update options

Alternatively, you can choose to get a notification before Updates are downloaded and installed automatically on your computer

1. Check the Enabled option to turn on the policy.
2. Under the “Options” section, you’ll find a number of options to configure automatic updates, including:
   • 2 – Notify for download and auto install.
   • 3 – Auto download and notify for install.
   • 4 – Auto download and schedule the install.
   • 5 – Allow local admin to choose setting.

   You should select the option that best fits your preference, but option 2 – Notify for download and auto install is the closest to safely disable automatic update downloads.

   

3. Click the Apply button.
4. Click the OK button.

Once you’ve completed the steps, Windows will no longer download updates automatically, and once new updates become available, you’ll get a notification to install them manually from Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.