The popularity of Windows 10 devices is undeniable. The Windows operating system enjoys a desktop and laptop market share of more than 75% according to Statcounter. Even with the proliferation of macOS laptops and desktops or Android and iOS smartphones, it is evident that Windows is indispensable in offices and schools, thanks to the familiarity and ease of use.
The Need to Disable Windows Updates
Windows 10 OS updates every six months to improve the existing usability and experience. In fact, it is one of the most frequently updating OS. Your Windows 10 devices check for an update every day and most updates happen in the background, with automatic download and installation.
These updates include several changes and improvements that can help the end-user and add to the security of the PC. In a controlled user environment like enterprises or schools, the PCs also have special usage policies or in-house apps. With auto-updates on Windows 10 devices, the performance of these applications or the entire device can be unpredictable. Or imagine a Windows 10 device used as digital signage and it automatically runs into updates during peak hours of user interactions.
And hence, for a consistent and effective user experience of Windows 10 devices in an enterprise setup, it is imperative to control the automatic OS updates.
Here’s how Scalefusion Windows 10 MDM can help!
How to Turn Off Windows Update
Getting started: Sign up on Scalefusion and log in to the Scalefusion dashboard. You can log in using your Azure AD credentials to effectively manage Windows 10 devices and enable Azure AD-joined features on the said Windows 10 devices. You can now enroll your Windows 10 devices and start managing them. Configure device profile, app, and website usage policy.
Learn more: How to Control User Experience via Kiosk Mode on Windows 10 devices
Now, navigate to the Windows Update Settings page in the Device Profile settings. To control auto-updates of Windows 10 OS on managed devices, toggle the Configure Update Policies button to get started. You’ll be offered the following settings option:
1. Auto-update Settings
Set Active Hours to start and end times where the auto reboots are not scheduled. The max range for the active hours during which the device is not rebooted is capped at 18 hours and you adjust this range from 1-18 hours. Next, you can set if you want to automate the wake request for daily scheduled maintenance. You can enable or disable the notifications for the same and enable or disable Windows update agent to fill the missing download URL.
For controlling the OS update, you can choose from:
- Notify the user before downloading the update
- Auto-install the update and then notify the user to schedule a device restart
- Auto-install and restart
- Auto-install and restart at a specified time
- Auto-install and restart without end-user control
- Turn off automatic updates
2. Deferral Settings
In this set of configurations, you can delay feature update roll-outs for up to 1 year. You can also pause updates for 60 days, set a default deadline for feature updates, delay and pause quality updates.
3. Schedule Settings
Once you’ve blocked the auto-update of the OS/ feature update, you can use these settings to set the day, week, and time for installation in a month. The device will then check for updates and install them on the said day and time every scheduled week.
You can find the entire list of settings and configurations here.
Alternatively, you can also check for control OS updates at Device group Level. You can pause the auto-OS updates and scan the entire device group for devices with pending updates and manually push the update at a scheduled time.
With Scalefusion, leveraging the capabilities of Windows 10 for work or education is streamlined. Choose Scalefusion MDM for Windows 10 to manage your Windows 10 laptops and desktops.
Schedule a free live demo here – https://scalefusion.com/book-a-demo and get all your questions answered.
FAQs
1. How do I control Windows updates?
To control Windows updates, leverage Windows device management and use policies to defer, schedule, or pause updates. It ensures updates happen at convenient times, minimizing disruptions while keeping devices secure and up-to-date.
2. Why is Windows automatically updating?
Windows automatically updates to ensure your device stays protected and optimized. These updates patch security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and add new features, enhancing your device’s reliability and security.
3. Can I stop Windows 10 from updating automatically?
Yes, in Windows 10, you can stop automatic updates temporarily or schedule them to avoid disruptions. Use Group Policy or settings to defer updates, set active hours, or pause updates for a specific period, providing flexibility while maintaining control over update installations.
