Deferring Windows Updates

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated August 15, 2016)

5

There may be times when it's crucial that you maintain the current status of your PC until you're done with a project. In these times, you don't want automatic updates to occur that would change your configuration. Fortunately, there is a way to defer updates. When you defer updates, new Windows features won't be downloaded or installed for several months (although security updates still will).

To defer updates, go to Start | Settings and click "Update & security": (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1. Going to the Update & security settings.

Once you click the "Update & security" icon, you'll be taken to the following window, where you should then click the Advanced options (circled below): (See Figure 2.)

Figure 2. Choosing the Advanced options in the Update & security settings.

Another window appears that looks like this: (See Figure 3.)

Figure 3. Setting Windows to defer updates.

Notice the checkmark beside "Defer upgrades" (circled above). This tells Windows to not download or install new features when they become available. When you're ready to get the updates, go back and uncheck this box, and you'll get caught up with everything you've missed.

 This tip (33) applies to Windows 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

Using the Sign Out Feature

To switch users without going through the lengthy reboot process, just sign out. It's not too obvious how to do this, but ...

Discover More

Using Media Player to Burn an Audio CD

One of the many things you can do with Windows Media Player is to burn audio CDs. This tip shows you how.

Discover More

SyncToy

SyncToy allows you to keep multiple pairs of folders in sync. This means it can also serve as a decent file-backup ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Evaluating System Performance Using the Task Manager

One of the many functions of the Windows Task Manager is to allow you to see how your system is performing. If necessary, ...

Discover More

Allowing Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop allows you to access other systems and operate them from your own system. If you want to use this ...

Discover More

Refreshing the Explorer Window

It's possible that the Windows Explorer window may occasionally get out of sync with the data it's displaying. You can ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 0 + 7?

2016-08-15 21:14:20

Raymond M. Clark

There is no "Defer upgradeJ" on my Settings, Advanced Options


2016-08-15 12:09:35

J. M. Hendricks

"Defer Update" option is not present within Advanced Options of my Windows 10 Update settings. Am I the only one without this option? or are there others? Any suggestions? Thank you.
Jim


2016-08-15 10:06:59

Henry Noble

Defer upgrades is not available on Home editions.

Defer upgrades is available on Pro editions, but it is not a total block. New features and OS upgrades will not be installed, but whatever Microsoft defines as a security update will be installed.

Enterprise editions have a much more complex set of rules.


2016-08-15 07:31:10

Rick Urquhart

This only applies to the Enterprise editions of Windows 10 (August 2016 - ver 1607) not the Home and Pro editions.


2016-08-15 06:18:20

Hyam Miller

This tip only applies to Windows 10 Profe4ssional. It does not apply to Windows 10 Home.

It may also apply to Windows 10 Enterprise and Academic, but those with these versions should check.


Newest Tips