Windows 11 is a service, which means Windows Update automatically installs important updates, including security updates, as they become available. Although you can’t turn off automatic updates in Windows 11, you can schedule or pause installing updates.
Manage updates in Windows 11
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Windows 11 offers you the choice of when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. If you're not ready to get recommended updates, you can choose to temporarily pause them from being downloaded and installed. In Windows 11, version 1903 (or later), Windows 11 Pro, version 1809, or Windows 11 Enterprise, version 1809:
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Select Start > Settings > Windows Update.
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Select either Pause updates for 7 days or Advanced options. Then, in the Pause updates section, select the drop-down menu and specify a date for updates to resume.
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Note:Â After the pause limit is reached, you'll need to install the latest updates before you can pause updates again.
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Your device will need to restart to finish installing updates. If you're asked to restart your device while you're busy using it, you can schedule the restart for a more convenient time:
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Select Start > Settings > Windows Update
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Select Schedule the restart and choose a time that's convenient for you. Note: You can set active hours to make sure your device only restarts for updates when you're not using your PC. Learn about active hours for Windows
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