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How to Stop and Block Windows 10 Update Notifications

Windows 10 regularly checks for and installs updates automatically to keep your device secure and running smoothly. However, some users find the update notifications annoying or want more control over when updates are installed. Here are some methods to stop and block Windows 10 update notifications.

Disable Automatic Updates

You can disable automatic updates in Windows 10 through these steps:

  1. Type “services.msc” in the Windows search bar and open the Services app
  2. Scroll down and double-click on Windows Update
  3. Change the Startup type to Disabled
  4. Click Stop to stop the service
  5. Click OK to save the changes

This will prevent Windows Update from running automatically and installing updates without your permission. However, your device will be more vulnerable to security threats.

Use Group Policy Editor

The Group Policy Editor, available in Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise editions, offers more granular control over update settings:

  1. Type “gpedit.msc” in the Run dialog to open Group Policy Editor
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update
  3. Double-click Configure Automatic Updates and select Disabled
  4. Click Apply > OK to disable automatic updates

Set Network as Metered

If your Windows 10 device connects to the internet over Wi-Fi, you can set the connection as metered to restrict automatic updates:

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi
  2. Click your Wi-Fi network and toggle Set as metered connection to On

This will treat the network connection as a limited data source, blocking large background downloads like Windows Updates.

Use Third-Party Tools

Utilities like Windows Update MiniTool and Windows Update Blocker offer a simple interface to disable Windows Updates. However, use reputable sources and scan for malware before running unknown software.

Hide Specific Updates

Rather than disabling all updates, you can hide updates you don’t wish to install through these steps:

  1. Open Windows Update settings
  2. Click View update history
  3. Right-click the update and select Hide

This prevents the specific update from being installed automatically while still allowing other updates.

Considerations

Fully disabling Windows Updates leaves your device vulnerable to security threats and bugs. Consider selectively hiding problematic updates instead of completely stopping the Windows Update service. Schedule regular scans with antivirus software to offset some of the increased risk.

When ready to install updates, return to Windows Update settings or restore automatic updates through the methods above. Keep your device’s operating system, apps, and drivers fully updated whenever possible for the best performance, compatibility, and security.

I hope this comprehensive guide on blocking Windows 10 update notifications has been helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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