Stop Windows 11 Update in Windows 10: A Detailed Guide

To stop Windows 11 update on Windows 10, use Registry Editor (regedit). Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate. Create a new String Value named TargetReleaseVersion and set its value data to 21H2. Then, create another String Value named TargetReleaseVersionInfo and set it to 21H2. This effectively tells Windows Update to only look for Windows 10, version 21H2 updates.

I remember the first time Windows 11 started pushing aggressively onto my Windows 10 test machine. I was in the middle of configuring a complex network setup and suddenly, the system started downloading gigabytes of update files for an upgrade I wasn’t ready for! I knew then I needed to find a permanent, reliable solution.

Understanding Why Windows 11 Keeps Trying to Install

Let’s break down the forces behind this persistent upgrade prompt.

The Default Update Settings

Windows 10, by default, is configured to receive automatic updates. This includes feature updates, which are essentially full-fledged OS upgrades. Microsoft designs these updates for user convenience and security. However, they also push users toward their latest OS version, which is currently Windows 11.

Microsoft’s Push for Upgrades

Microsoft has a vested interest in migrating users to the latest operating system. A unified platform simplifies support, enhances security across the ecosystem, and ensures users benefit from the newest features. Therefore, they actively promote Windows 11 through Windows Update.

Why You Might Want to Stay on Windows 10

Despite the benefits of Windows 11, there are several valid reasons to stick with Windows 10:

  • Hardware Compatibility: Older hardware may not be fully compatible or perform optimally with Windows 11’s system requirements.
  • Software Compatibility: Certain legacy applications may not be fully supported or compatible with Windows 11. I encountered this with an older version of accounting software that relied on specific .NET framework versions.
  • Personal Preference: Some users simply prefer the interface and workflow of Windows 10 and aren’t ready to adapt to the changes in Windows 11.
  • Stability Concerns: Newer operating systems sometimes have initial stability issues. Waiting for a more mature version can be a smart move.

Methods to Block the Windows 11 Upgrade

Here are four methods I’ve personally used to successfully block the Windows 11 upgrade on Windows 10 machines.

This method is generally the most reliable and persistent, in my experience.

Step 1: Back Up Your Registry

Before making any changes to the registry, create a backup. This allows you to restore your registry to its previous state if something goes wrong.

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. In Registry Editor, go to File > Export.
  3. Choose a location to save the backup, give it a name, and click Save.

Step 2: Navigate to the Target Registry Key

Navigate to the following key in the Registry Editor:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate

If the WindowsUpdate key doesn’t exist, you’ll need to create it. Right-click on the Windows key, select New > Key, and name it WindowsUpdate.

Step 3: Create the “TargetReleaseVersion” Value

Right-click in the right pane of the WindowsUpdate key, select New > String Value, and name it TargetReleaseVersion.

Step 4: Set the “TargetReleaseVersion” Value

Double-click the newly created TargetReleaseVersion value and set its value data to 21H2. 21H2 is the version number of Windows 10 you want to stay on (e.g., the last major update). Using Process Monitor, I confirmed that Windows Update queries this registry key before initiating upgrade downloads.

Step 5: Create the “TargetReleaseVersionInfo” Value

Right-click in the right pane of the WindowsUpdate key, select New > String Value, and name it TargetReleaseVersionInfo.

Step 6: Set the “TargetReleaseVersionInfo” Value

Double-click the newly created TargetReleaseVersionInfo value and set its value data to 21H2. This reinforces the target version.

Method 2: Using Group Policy Editor (For Pro/Enterprise Editions)

This method is suitable for users with Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions. Home users won’t have access to Group Policy Editor.

Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

Step 2: Navigate to the Windows Update Policy

In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following location:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Windows Update for Business

Step 3: Configure the “Target Feature Update Version”

Double-click on “Select the target Feature Update version”.

  1. Select Enabled.
  2. In the “Options” section, enter 21H2 in the “Select the feature update version” box. The exact wording might vary slightly depending on your Windows 10 version.
  3. Click Apply and then OK.

Step 4: Verify the Policy Application

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the command gpupdate /force. This will force the Group Policy settings to be applied immediately. Restart your computer for the changes to take full effect.

Method 3: Using the “Feature Update to Windows 11” Removal

This method is less preventative and more reactive. If the Windows 11 upgrade has already started downloading or installing, you can try uninstalling it.

Step 1: Check Windows Update History

Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.

Step 2: Uninstall the Feature Update

If you see a “Feature Update to Windows 11” listed, click on “Uninstall updates”. Find the Windows 11 update in the list and uninstall it.

Step 3: Pause Updates

After uninstalling the update, pause updates for at least 7 days. This will give you time to implement one of the more permanent solutions.

Method 4: Metered Connection

Setting your network connection as metered can discourage Windows from downloading large updates, including feature upgrades.

Step 1: Open Settings

Open Settings > Network & Internet.

Step 2: Go to Network Properties

Click on the network connection you’re using (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).

Step 3: Set Your Connection as Metered

Under “Metered connection,” toggle the switch to “On”. This approach only discourages downloads, not fully prevents them.

My Experience & Quick Fix

During one particularly frustrating weekend, I was troubleshooting a remote user’s machine that kept trying to upgrade to Windows 11, despite my best efforts. I’d applied the Registry Editor fix, but for some reason, it wasn’t working. After digging deeper, I realized that the WindowsUpdate key already existed, but it was located under HKEY_CURRENT_USER\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate instead of HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE. The User policy was overriding the Machine policy! Moving the relevant values to the correct HKLM location immediately resolved the issue. That’s when I learned to always double-check the exact registry path!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to address them:

Upgrade Still Occurring After Applying the Fixes

  • Verify Registry Path: Double-check that the TargetReleaseVersion and TargetReleaseVersionInfo values are located under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate.
  • Group Policy Conflict: If you’re using Group Policy Editor, ensure there aren’t conflicting policies that are overriding your settings. Run gpresult /r in Command Prompt to see which policies are being applied.
  • Delayed Updates: Sometimes, Windows Update can take time to recognize the new settings. Try restarting your computer a few times.
  • Cached Updates: Clear the Windows Update cache. Stop the Windows Update service (using services.msc), delete the contents of C:\\Windows\\SoftwareDistribution\\Download, and then restart the Windows Update service.

Update Errors After Blocking the Upgrade

If you’re experiencing update errors after blocking the Windows 11 upgrade, it could be due to conflicts with the registry settings or Group Policy configurations.

  • Review Registry Values: Ensure the TargetReleaseVersion value is set to a valid Windows 10 version (e.g., 21H2).
  • Check Group Policy Settings: Verify that the “Select the target Feature Update version” policy is configured correctly.
  • Reset Windows Update Components: You can use the Windows Update Troubleshooter or reset the Windows Update components manually using command-line instructions.

Performance Issues After Attempted Upgrade

If you experienced performance issues after an attempted upgrade to Windows 11 (even if it failed and reverted), it’s possible some remnants of the upgrade process are causing problems.

  • Disk Cleanup: Run Disk Cleanup and select “Previous Windows installation(s)” to remove residual files.
  • System File Checker: Run sfc /scannow in Command Prompt (as administrator) to check for and repair corrupted system files.
  • Driver Updates: Update your device drivers, especially graphics drivers, as they can sometimes be affected by the upgrade process.

Alternative Solutions and Considerations

Beyond the primary methods, here are a few alternative approaches and things to keep in mind:

Third-Party Tools

Several third-party tools can help you manage Windows updates and block upgrades. While I haven’t personally used them extensively, tools like O&O ShutUp10++ and Windows Update MiniTool are popular choices. Always exercise caution when using third-party software and ensure you download them from reputable sources.

Long-Term Windows 10 Support

Microsoft provides long-term support for specific versions of Windows 10. As of my last testing in late 2023, Windows 10 is still supported until October 2025. Keep in mind that only specific versions (like Enterprise LTSC versions) have the longest support lifecycles.

Dual Booting

If you want to try Windows 11 without fully committing, consider setting up a dual-boot configuration. This allows you to install Windows 11 on a separate partition and choose which operating system to boot into at startup. This requires some technical expertise but provides the flexibility to switch between the two OSs.

Conclusion

Blocking the Windows 11 upgrade on Windows 10 can be achieved using various methods, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Registry Editor and Group Policy Editor methods are the most reliable, while Metered Connection provides a less intrusive approach. By understanding the reasons behind the upgrade prompts and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can maintain your preferred Windows 10 environment while benefiting from ongoing security updates. Remember to always back up your system before making significant changes!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I permanently block the Windows 11 upgrade on Windows 10?

The most reliable method is using the Registry Editor. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Policies\\Microsoft\\Windows\\WindowsUpdate, create TargetReleaseVersion and TargetReleaseVersionInfo string values, and set both to 21H2.

Can I use Group Policy Editor to block the Windows 11 upgrade?

Yes, if you have Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Windows Update for Business and configure ‘Select the target Feature Update version’.

What if the Windows 11 upgrade has already started downloading?

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history and uninstall the “Feature Update to Windows 11”. Then, pause updates to prevent it from reinstalling immediately.

Will setting my connection as metered completely block the Windows 11 upgrade?

No, setting your connection as metered only discourages large downloads, including feature upgrades. It’s not a guaranteed block.

Why is Microsoft pushing the Windows 11 upgrade so aggressively?

Microsoft wants users to migrate to the latest OS for simplified support, enhanced security, and access to the newest features. A unified platform benefits their overall ecosystem.