Windows 10 : Defer updates

Windows allows you to temporarily pause updates or defer updates by a certain number of days. The defer option allows you to defer only feature updates; you will continue to receive security updates and bug fixes. It is possible to defer security updates as well for up to 30 days. But deferring security updates is probably not a good idea.

Why defer updates?

Why might you want to defer feature updates? Well, you wouldn’t if you are an enthusiast and want to try out the new features of Windows 10. But if system stability is more important to you than new and improved features, then deferring feature updates is a good idea.

Method 1: Pause updates temporarily using Settings

New versions of Windows 10 allows you to pause updates until a specified date. This feature is available in the Settings App

What does temporary pausing of updates mean?

Updates can be paused for up to 35 days. Pausing an update is effectively the same as picking a date for getting the OS up to date with the latest version of Windows. On your chosen date all new updates will be installed. At this point, your OS will be at its latest version. If you want to pause again you will need to do so manually once more.

Pause updates for 7 days

1. Start Menu
2. Settings
3. Update and security
4. Click the option pause updates for 7 days

Pause updates for up to 35 days

1. Start Menu
2. Settings
3. Update and security
4. Advanced Options.
5. In the pause updates section, choose the date on which you want updates to be installed

Method 2: Defer updates using the Settings App

1. Start Menu
2. Settings
3. Update and security
4. Advanced Options
5. Choose when updates are installed
6. Select how long you want to defer updates.

Method 3: Defer updates using Group Policy

If your version of Windows supports Group Policy, you can defer updates using it. Here are the steps:-

1. Press WIN+R to open Run
2. Type gpedit.msc and press ENTER
3. Go to Computer Configuration ➾ Administrative Templates ➾ Windows Components ➾ Windows Update ➾ Windows Update for Business
4. Here you will find policies to defer Feature updates and quality updates.
5. Double click on the policy you are interested in, enable it and choose the number of days to defer updates by. You also have the option to choose the readiness level of Windows for the updates you want to receive. Here you have options like preview build, release preview, semi-annual channel, etc. A description of these options is available in the same Window.