We've previously covered how to stop Windows automatically restarting after an update, but what if you just want to disable Windows update notifications? They can interrupt what you're doing, cover a game UI element at a crucial time, and more. Well, today we're going to show you two ways to get rid of them for good.
Before we do, however, it's worth adding the usual disclaimer. Windows updates are very important for the continued stability and security of your operating system. If you do not regularly update, you risk opening yourself up to vulnerabilities that are out in the open but not patched on your PC.
Should You Turn off Windows Update Notifications?
That said, if you're in the (good) habit of applying updates when you turn off your PC for the day, you may find these notifications unnecessary. In such cases, knowing how to turn off Windows update notifications will save you a lot of pain. So, here's how you can do it using Settings and the Group Policy Editor:
How to Stop Windows Update and Restart Notifications via Settings in Windows 11
This method will prevent all Windows Update-related notifications from appearing on your Windows 11 system. To disable Windows Update notifications on Windows 11 using the Settings app, follow these steps:
- Open Settings
Press the Start button and click the settings cog, or press “Windows + I“. Alternatively, you can search for “Settings” in the Start menu and open it from there.
- Click “Windows Update”
In the Settings app, navigate to “Windows Update” and click “Advanced options“.
- Toggle off “Show notifications”
Scroll down to the and toggle off the option to disable notifications called “Notify me when a restart is required to finish updating“.
How to Stop Windows Update and Restart Notifications via Settings in Windows 10
The most user-friendly way to stop Windows 10 update notifications, is, unsurprisingly, through Microsoft's settings app. Just bear in mind that Microsoft may be sneaky and enable notifications again after a feature update.
- Open Settings
Press the Start button, then click the settings cog, above the power button. Alternatively, press “Windows + I”.
- Click “Update & Security”
In the Settings app, navigate to “Update & Security“.
- Open “Advanced Options” in “Windows Update”
Click “Windows Update” in the sidebar, then “Advanced Options” in the main pane.
- Disable Update Notifications
Scroll down to the “Update notifications” section and toggle off the option to disable notifications. The toggle is under the description, “Show a notification when your PC requires a restart to finish updating”.
- Optional: Toggle off “restart when a restart is required”
You'll find this under “Update options” with the description “Restart this device as soon as possible when a restart is required to install an update. Windows will display a notice before the restart”.
How to Disable Windows Update and Restart Notification via Group Policy in Windows 11 or Windows 10
This method is suitable for users who have administrative access and want to apply the change to multiple users. It requires the Group Policy Editor, which is available in Windows 10 Pro / Windows 11 Pro and higher editions.
- Open the Local Group Policy Editor
Press Start and type “Group Policy” or “gpedit”, then click the top result.
- Navigate to the Policy Location
In the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update
- Enable or Disable the Policy
Click on the “Enabled” or “Disabled” button to apply the change. Click “OK” to save the changes.
Related: How to Roll Back Updates and Check Your Windows Update History
Now that you know how to get rid of the Windows update notification, you may be wondering whether your PC has already updated without your knowledge. You can follow our update history guide to check, then use our rollback guide if you need to go back to a previous version for compatibility.
Related: How to Limit Bandwidth for Windows Update Downloads
Windows Update downloads can often be frustrating because they are several gigabytes in size and can slow down your internet connection. That means your device may work with reduced performance while the update is downloading. In our other guide, we show you how to limit bandwidth for Windows Update downloads, so they won't bother you again.
Related: How to Reset Windows 11 or Windows 10 (Normal or Factory Reset)
If you have a persistent issue with your PC that you have been unable to fix, the best option is to usually to reset your operating system. This will give you the option to keep your files (refresh), remove everything, or perform a factory reset. In our other guide, we show you how to factory reset Windows 11 and Windows 10 using both Advanced Startup Options and the OS's in-built Settings apps.
Related: How to Configure Windows Active Hours to Avoid Forced Reboots
Windows 11, like its predecessor Windows 10, is designed to streamline the update process, often automatically downloading and installing updates. While this feature ensures your system is always up-to-date with the latest features and security patches, it can sometimes lead to an inconvenient experience. In our other guide we show you how to configure Windows 11 Active Hours Using Settings and Group Policy and how to reschedule pending restarts when a Windows update has been downloaded already.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Windows Update
Can I choose specific updates to install or avoid?
Yes, within the Windows Update settings, you have the option to pause updates for a certain period or choose a more convenient time for the update to install. While Windows does automatically manage updates to ensure your system's security, you can manually select whether to download and install optional updates or feature updates.
Can I manage Windows Update settings through the Command Prompt or PowerShell?
Yes, advanced users can leverage Command Prompt or PowerShell to manage Windows Update settings. Using PowerShell, for example, you can initiate updates, change active hours, or even pause updates by using specific cmdlets like Get-WindowsUpdate, Install-WindowsUpdate, and Set-ActiveHours.
Are there any third-party tools recommended for managing Windows Update notifications?
While third-party tools can offer more granular control over updates, such as selectively blocking specific updates, using them is generally not recommended due to potential security risks. It's safer to stick with the native tools provided by Windows, such as the Settings app and Group Policy Editor, to manage your update preferences unless you fully trust and understand the third-party software.
Is it possible to schedule Windows updates for a specific time?
Yes, Windows allows you to schedule updates at a specific time. In the Windows Update settings, you can set your active hours to ensure that your device won't restart during your typical working hours. Additionally, you can manually schedule a restart for a time that suits you best right after an update has been downloaded and is ready to install.
What should I do if disabling Windows Update notifications does not work as expected?
First, ensure you've followed all the instructions correctly and check if the settings were saved properly. If disabling notifications still doesn't work, you may need to troubleshoot the Windows Update settings. Consider running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which can automatically fix some common issues.
Will disabling Windows Update notifications impact the installation of security updates?
No, disabling notifications will not stop Windows from installing updates; it only turns off the alerts that inform you about the updates. To ensure your system remains secure, periodically manual check for updates in the Windows Update section of Settings. This proactive approach helps prevent security vulnerabilities.
How often should I manually check for Windows updates after disabling notifications?
It is recommended to check for updates at least once a week if you have disabled notifications. This frequency ensures that your device remains up-to-date with the latest security patches and performance improvements without waiting too long between checks.
What are the risks of disabling Windows Update notifications?
The primary risk is that you might forget to manually check for updates, which could delay the installation of important security patches and feature improvements. Regular updates are crucial for protecting your PC from recent threats and ensuring optimal performance.
After disabling notifications, how can I ensure my system is up to date?
Regularly visit the Windows Update section in Settings; it's advisable to do this weekly. Here you can check for, review, and install any pending updates. Setting reminders or scheduling regular checks can help keep your system updated without having to rely on notifications.
If I disable Windows Update notifications, will I still receive notifications for driver updates?
Disabling general Windows Update notifications may reduce the frequency of notifications for driver updates since these are typically delivered through Windows Update. It's important to manually check the Optional Updates section under Windows Update periodically for driver updates, especially if you encounter device-related issues.
Can disabling Windows Update notifications affect automatic restarts after updates?
Disabling notifications does not directly affect how updates are installed or when your device restarts after an update. However, you can control this behavior by adjusting your active hours and restart options in the Windows Update settings to minimize disruptions.
Can I re-enable Windows Update notifications after disabling them?
Yes, you can easily re-enable notifications by following the steps provided in the tutorial in reverse. Just navigate to the Windows Update settings and toggle the notification settings back to their original state.
Do these methods for disabling Windows Update notifications work on all editions of Windows 10 and Windows 11?
The method using the Settings app applies to all editions of Windows 10 and Windows 11. The Group Policy method, however, is only available in the Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions of Windows. For Home edition users, registry edits could be an alternative but are not recommended without technical expertise.
Is it possible to roll back updates if they cause issues?
Yes, if an update causes stability or compatibility issues, you can roll it back within a certain time frame, typically ten days from the installation. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and select ‘Go back to the previous version of Windows 10/11'. Ensure to back up your data before proceeding.
How can I check if my PC has installed updates without my knowledge?
To verify the updates installed, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click on ‘View update history'. This section will list all updates installed on your system, including the dates of installation.
