How to Permanently Block Windows Upgrades: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recent reports have highlighted a concerning trend where Windows systems appear to be upgrading automatically, transitioning not only to the latest feature updates but in some cases from Windows 10 to Windows 11. For users who prefer to remain on Windows 10 or a specific feature version, the prospect of unintentional upgrades can be unsettling. To safeguard your current setup, it’s essential to implement the strategies outlined below to prevent automatic upgrades.

Are Windows PCs Upgrading Automatically Without User Approval?

The question arises: if these updates are indeed optional, why do many users report automatic installations? Currently, there is no verified information from Microsoft confirming that such upgrades occur without user consent. It’s more likely that users are inadvertently accepting upgrades or that a technical glitch is at play.

Microsoft has a reputation for being quite proactive regarding upgrades, especially for operating systems. This can lead users to mistakenly click “Accept”on unanticipated upgrade prompts. Additionally, feature updates are often bundled with routine Windows updates, complicating the decision-making process during installations.

Another factor to consider is the setting labeled Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available within the Windows updater. When activated, this option allows for immediate installation of updates. Critical feature updates may also be force-installed, especially when the currently installed version is approaching its end-of-service status. For instance, the Windows 11 23H2 update will no longer be supported following its termination in November 2025.

Despite the reasons behind these actions, it’s undeniable that unbounded upgrades happen frequently. If you want to prevent this from occurring inadvertently, consider adopting the following preventive measures.

How to Prevent Windows Upgrades Using Group Policy Editor

For users operating Windows Pro or Enterprise editions, Group Policy Editor provides a practical way to lock your system to a particular feature update or OS version. To start, press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type winver, and hit Enter to view your version—look for something like 24H2 or 25H2.

Next, search for “gpe”in Windows Search and select Edit Group Policy.

Navigate to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Manage Updates Offered from Windows Update. Here, find and open the Select the Target Feature Update Version policy.

Enable the policy and enter your OS edition in the first box and the desired feature update version in the second. To prevent Windows 10 from upgrading to Windows 11, use Windows 10 and 22H2 accordingly.

After applying these settings, your Windows version should remain as established, and upgrades beyond this version will be halted.

Preventing Upgrades via the Windows Registry

If you are on Windows Home edition, which does not include Group Policy Editor, you can utilize the Windows Registry to achieve similar results. Before proceeding, remember to back up the Registry, as incorrect changes can disrupt system functionality.

Open the Windows Registry and navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate

Right-click in the right-hand panel, choose New → DWORD (32-bit) Value, and label it TargetReleaseVersion. Double-click this option and set its value to 1.

Next, create another String Value called ProductVersion, and specify the OS edition you wish to remain on—enter Windows 11 to halt feature upgrades or Windows 10 for OS upgrades.

Create a final String Value called TargetReleaseVersionInfo, setting its value to your feature update version, such as 22H2 for Windows 10.

Be aware that if you define a target feature update version for Windows 11, it will disregard this Registry edit once the feature update’s support period expires, leading to a forced upgrade within 60 days.

Utilizing the InControl App for Version Locking

For those seeking a more user-friendly solution, the free InControl app offers an efficient means to permanently lock your PC to its current version and feature update. This application modifies six different registry keys to ensure system versions remain unchanged, even after their end-of-service date.

Using the app is as simple as clicking the Take Control button, instantly freezing updates while allowing for necessary monthly updates. Notably, the app does not need to be active continuously for the changes to take effect, although you’ll need it to reverse any modifications later.

By implementing these changes, you can confidently operate your PC without the fear of automatic upgrades disrupting your established environment. However, should you decide to upgrade in the future, ensure you revert these settings. If you’re still utilizing Windows 10, consider the compelling reasons to transition to Windows 11.

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