Step-by-step guide on how to cancel Windows update
Step 1: Stop Windows update service
The first thing you need to do is to stop the Windows update service on your computer. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type ‘services.msc’ and hit Enter.
- Scroll down and look for the ‘Windows Update’ option.
- Right-click on ‘Windows Update’ and select ‘Stop’.
This will stop the Windows update service on your computer and prevent it from downloading and installing any updates.
Step 2: Disable Windows update
After stopping the Windows update service, you need to disable it on your computer. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type ‘gpedit.msc’ and hit Enter.
- Navigate to ‘Computer Configuration’ > ‘Administrative Templates’ > ‘Windows Components’ > ‘Windows Update’.
- Double-click on ‘Configure Automatic Updates’.
- Select ‘Disabled’ and click on ‘Apply’ and ‘OK’.
This will disable Windows update on your computer and prevent it from downloading and installing any updates.
Step 3: Disable Windows update service permanently
If you want to permanently disable the Windows update service on your computer, then follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type ‘regedit’ and hit Enter.
- Navigate to ‘HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate\AU’.
- Right-click on the right pane and select ‘New’ > ‘DWORD (32-bit) Value’.
- Enter ‘NoAutoUpdate’ as the name.
- Double-click on ‘NoAutoUpdate’ and set the value to ‘1’.
- Click on ‘OK’.
This will permanently disable the Windows update service on your computer and prevent it from downloading and installing any updates.
Other important information you need to know
Why should you cancel Windows update?
Cancelling Windows update is necessary if your system has undergone any changes or updates that conflict with the latest update to your Windows operating system. This conflict can cause your system to have unusual errors that may need to be diagnosed and fixed immediately.
Should you cancel Windows update?
Yes, you should cancel Windows update if you’re experiencing any problems with your computer after updating your Windows operating system. However, if your computer is working fine and you have no issues, then it’s best to leave it as it is.
How often should I check for updates?
We recommend checking for updates at least once a week to ensure your computer is up to date with the latest security patches and performance improvements.
How can I fix Windows update errors?
If you’re experiencing errors with Windows update, then you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your computer and try again.
- Run the Windows update troubleshooter.
- Delete the Windows update cache.
- Reset the Windows update components.
- Disable your antivirus and try again.
What are the consequences of not updating Windows?
Not updating your Windows operating system can lead to security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers and malware. It can also cause your computer to have performance issues that can affect its performance and usability.
Should I update my drivers?
Updating your drivers is an important part of maintaining your computer’s performance. You can manually update your drivers or use a driver updater tool to automatically update all your drivers.
How can I backup my system?
You can backup your system by using the Windows backup tool or a third-party backup software. It’s important to backup your system regularly to ensure that you have a copy of all your important files and data in case something goes wrong with your system.
How can I optimize my computer’s performance?
You can optimize your computer’s performance by doing the following:
- Removing unnecessary programs and files
- Defragmenting your hard drive
- Disabling startup programs
- Clearing your browser cache and history
- Running a malware scan
What should I do if my computer gets infected by malware?
If your computer gets infected by malware, then you should do the following:
- Disconnect your computer from the internet
- Run a full system scan with your antivirus software
- Remove any infections found
- Install a malware removal tool and run a scan
- Change your passwords for all online accounts
How can I protect my computer from malware?
You can protect your computer from malware by doing the following:
- Installing a reputable antivirus software
- Keeping your operating system and other software up to date
- Being cautious when downloading and installing software
- Not clicking on suspicious links or emails
- Using a strong and unique password for each online account
Advantages and Disadvantages of How to Cancel Windows Update
Advantages (Kelebihan)
1. Reducing Disruption in Work Productivity: Canceling Windows updates can minimize the disruption in work productivity caused by the update installation.
2. Saving Time: Avoiding the update installation can save time that would otherwise be spent waiting for the update to be installed and configuring the operating system.
3. Control Over the System: With Windows update canceled, users have more control over their system, can choose what and when to update, and avoid potential conflicts with other programs.
4. Preventing Data Loss: By stopping a problematic update, users can prevent potential data loss through system crashes.
5. Avoiding Compatibility Issues: Sometimes, an update may not be compatible with other software or hardware on the computer. Canceling the update can avoid compatibility issues that can lead to system crashes or data loss.
6. Avoiding Driver Errors: In some cases, an update installation may cause a driver error that prevents peripherals such as printers or scanners from working properly. Canceling the update can help prevent this issue.
7. Avoiding Unwanted Changes: Some updates can introduce unwanted changes that may not be reversible. Canceling the update can help users avoid these changes.
8. Increased System Stability: Canceling updates can increase the stability of the system by avoiding conflicts with other programs and hardware.
9. Lower Bandwidth Usage: Canceling the update can prevent unnecessary downloads from consuming bandwidth.
10. Flexibility: Canceling an update gives users the flexibility to choose when to update their system without being limited by automatic updates.
Disadvantages (Kekurangan)
1. Security Risks: By not updating the system, users may expose their computer to potential security risks such as malware or viruses.
2. Unpatched Vulnerabilities: If users cancel updates, they may leave their system vulnerable to unpatched vulnerabilities that could compromise their system.
3. Compatibility Issues: Canceling updates can cause compatibility issues with other software or hardware installed on the computer, which can lead to system crashes or data loss.
4. Reduced Performance: Skipping updates may result in poor system performance and slow down the computer’s overall functioning.
5. Incompatibility with Newest Software: By not updating the system, users may not be able to use the latest software that requires updated system settings.
6. Limited Functionality: By skipping updates, users may miss out on new features and functions that are available with updated software.
7. Increased Maintenance Cost: Not updating the system can lead to an increased maintenance cost as it may require more frequent maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs.
8. Reduced System Lifespan: Skipping updates can reduce the overall lifespan of the system by leaving it exposed to unpatched vulnerabilities and security risks.
9. Loss of Microsoft Support: By not updating the system, users may lose access to Microsoft support and latest troubleshooting and repair tools in the long run.
10. EOL Support: Similarly, not updating the system can cause the operating system to become outdated and eventually lose end-of-life (EOL) support from Microsoft, limiting future options.
FAQ
1. Why would someone want to cancel Windows update?
There could be various reasons behind it. One of the primary reasons could be the update causing compatibility issues or slowing down the system. Also, in some cases, an update could cause data loss or other errors.
2. Is it safe to cancel a Windows update?
It is generally safe to cancel a Windows update unless it is in the process of installing. Cancelling an update midway could cause damage or data loss in some cases.
3. How long does it take to cancel a Windows update?
The cancellation time depends on the size of the update and the system’s configuration. However, it would ideally take a few minutes to cancel the update.
4. Can I cancel a single update and keep others going?
Yes, it’s possible to cancel a specific update and keep other updates going. You can select the pending updates and choose to install the ones you need.
5. Can I cancel an update after it has started installing?
It is not recommended to cancel an update in the middle of installation. It could potentially harm your system or cause data loss.
6. How can I stop a Windows update from automatically installing?
You can disable automatic updates or set it to notify before installing an update.
7. How do I find my update history?
You can find your update history in the Windows settings. Go to the “Update & Security” section and click on “View update history.”
8. Can I uninstall a Windows update?
Yes, you can uninstall a Windows update. Just go to the “Update & Security” section and click on “View update history.” Then click on “Uninstall updates.”
9. Will cancelling updates affect my system’s security?
It could potentially affect your system’s security if the update is related to critical security patches. It’s recommended to install important security updates at the earliest.
10. How can I check if an update is causing issues with my system?
You can check the update history and see if any issues have been reported by other users. You can also try rolling back the update to see if the problem persists.
11. Does cancelling Windows update delete the update files?
Cancelling an update does not delete the update files. However, you can delete them manually to free up space on your system.
12. What should I do if my system freezes during an update?
If your system freezes during an update, you should wait for a few minutes to see if it starts moving again. If not, you can try restarting the system. If the problem persists, you may need to seek technical assistance.
13. How can I ensure that Windows updates do not cause issues on my system?
You can regularly update your system and check if any issues have been reported. It’s also recommended to keep a backup of your crucial data to avoid data loss.