Member Avatar for danialvin

Windows Update takes so much data usage. I want to stop it. Please tell me how to turn it off permanently.

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by streamvn
naomi_mia commented: You can try to disable it through SERVICES, but it is only temporary. When you restart your computer, it will be running again. +0
wpidn.com commented: Updates are often entwined; one update has both features and security and again, I like the way Apple simply says "here's new stuff" and you're done +0

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Short, practical summary and safer alternatives to the replies above.

As notes, Windows Update can chew through limited data. is technically right that the only guaranteed way to never receive updates is to keep the PC offline, but that is rarely practical and leaves the machine exposed to security risks. Microsoft provides only temporary, supported controls (pause, metered, policy-based deferral) rather than a one‑click “permanent off.” Pause updates in Windows.

Two recommended, low‑risk approaches that save data without breaking the system: 1) set your connection to metered so Windows won’t auto-download non‑priority updates, and 2) use the Pause updates control when you need a short window without downloads. Steps are in Settings → Network & Internet (set as metered) and Settings → Windows Update → Pause updates. These are reversible and supported by Microsoft. Metered connections in Windows · Pause updates in Windows.

For more permanent control on Pro/Education/Enterprise machines, use Group Policy / Windows Update client policies to require manual installs or defer feature/quality updates (feature updates can be deferred up to 365 days; quality up to 30 days). That is the supported method—do not remove or delete Windows Update components or services (the OS has repair services that may re-enable/uproot changes and deleting services can break updates). Windows Update client policies (deferrals) · Guidance on system services (WaaSMedicSvc).

Summary: for limited data, prefer metered + manual checks; for organizational control use Group Policy/deferrals; avoid deleting or permanently disabling update services.

Recommended Answers

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Member Avatar for Reverend Jim

The only way to permanently disable it is to never connect to the internet.

commented: hmm +0
commented: That's about the only way. I've seen folk try many things, this works. Also, Linux. +15
commented: hahaaaa +0
Member Avatar for naomi_mia

If you want, just disable it (through SERVICES) every time you turn on your pc.

Member Avatar for cqx9

sc delete wuauserv in cmd, execute with admin privileges. It will delete Windows Update service.

SC = Service
Delete = Delete
Wuauserv = Windows Update (AU?) Service.

Edited by cqx9
Member Avatar for Seema_7

Run the Services Manger (services.msc), then disable the Windows Update service and reboot the machine.

Member Avatar for streamvn

The only way is to block the internet connection.

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