How to disable Windows updates permanently?

Alvaro Cebreros 0 Reputation points
2025-09-09T22:34:49.7766667+00:00

Hi, I need support about windows 10 Enterprise LTSC. We need to disable Windows Updates because an update could damage our application on a Microsoft Workstation 6 Series 2.

It would be fatal if we were to upgrade to Windows 11 (it currently has Windows 10), since the people who manage the device aren't aware of it, and if the "Do you want to upgrade to Windows 11?" pops up and they say yes, it could be malicious. If it's not possible to disable Windows Updates, can we at least disable these update ads?

Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Devices and deployment | Install Windows updates, features, or roles
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  1. Quinnie Quoc 11,835 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-09T23:20:04.11+00:00

    Dear Alvaro Cebreros,

    Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC is designed for long-term stability and does not receive feature updates, including automatic upgrades to Windows 11. However, to further minimize risk, you can disable Windows Update notifications and upgrade prompts using Group Policy settings. Specifically, we recommend:

    Configuring “Turn off Windows Update notifications” under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.

    Setting “DisableOSUpgrade” in the registry to prevent upgrade offers.

    Ensuring that Windows Update service is set to manual or disabled, if appropriate for your environment.

    For additional control, you may also use Windows Update for Business policies or a local update management solution to block specific updates.

    Please let us know if you need assistance applying these settings or validating your LTSC configuration.

    Best regards,

    Quinnie Quoc.

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  2. Eng. Mohammed Naji 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-13T06:17:57.06+00:00

    Method 1: Disable the Windows Update Service

    1. Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
    2. Type services.msc and press Enter to open the Services Manager.
    3. Scroll down and double-click on Windows Update.
    4. In the General tab, change the Startup type to Disabled.
    5. Click the Stop button if the service is currently running.
    6. Click Apply and then OK.
    7. Restart your computer.

    Method 2: Use the Local Group Policy Editor

    Because LTSC includes enterprise management tools, you can use Group Policy to turn off automatic updates.

    1. Press the Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
    2. Navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
    3. Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates.
    4. Select Disabled, then click Apply and OK.

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