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Writer's pictureBurton Kelso, Tech Expert

How to Pause the Windows 11 Update

Updated: Nov 3



The countdown to Windows 10's end-of-life has begun. On October 14th, 2025, Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10. In the upcoming months, if you're still using Windows 10, you may start to notice a lingering notice that Windows 11 Update is ready to be installed.  Software updates for operating systems, especially if you are trying to get the latest version are very important to install. Unlike years ago, these updates are usually problem-free, but on rare occasions, they can cause problems. Recently, we've seen some people have problems upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and experiencing the Windows Blue Screen of Death and other issues. If you are a Windows 10 or 11 user and are experiencing one of those problems, check out this article. Here's what you need to know.


There's a myth that new updates are buggy and will always ruin your devices. This is no longer the case as updates are safe to download. Sometimes you will experience updates that sometimes make older, out-of-date software no longer function. There are always exceptions to the rules. Updates like the Cloudstrike update that occurred in mid-2024 can happen from time to time, but again is not the norm. Microsoft is aware of the flaw in the update, but you should hold off for a while before you download the update.


How To Prevent the Windows 11 Update. One of the changes Microsoft made to their operating systems was the automatic installation of updates. Under most circumstances, Windows will only automatically download updates that patch flaws in Windows and save the Operating System updates for you. However, sometimes those OS updates will download automatically. If you want to ensure, Windows 11 doesn't download to your Windows computer, do the following:

  • Type ‘check for updates’ in the Windows search box at the bottom of your screen to access the ‘Updates’ menu.

  • The first option will be ‘Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available’ which should be turned off for the time being.

  • This will pause the updates for a short period, which will give you the ability to get help to determine your best course of action.


What to Do Next. Before you take the leap from Windows 10 to Windows 11, there are several things you need to do. First, you need to make sure the software you use at home and at work will run on Windows 11. Many times, older software won't run on newer operating systems. Next, you need to make sure your computer will run on Windows 11. Microsoft has made this job easier for you as they have a tool that will automatically check to see if Windows 11 will run on your computer. If the scanner says, that your computer will not run, it means at some point you will need to upgrade your computer, but don't worry, you have until October 2025. Finally, always have automatic backups of your information before you download any updates. With technology, you never know what will go wrong.


Why is It Important to Update to Windows 11?

In this digital age, there are serious security issues that operating system updates addresses, so much so, that the US government has mandated that all federal employees should update over the next year and stop using older devices. What does this mean? Well, it means when you're able to do so you need to update Windows to protect against very real threats to your Windows devices. If your computer is still running an older version of Windows (XP, 7, 8.1) there is no patch for these cyber security vulnerability as support has ended, so if your computer is connected to the Internet, it should be disconnected until you figure out a way to protect yourself.


The tricky part of this problem is knowing when it’s safe to update, which requires someone who is monitoring the situation closely. If you have a relationship with a tech support person, getting them involved in the evaluation of your situation is highly recommended.

Until things are updated, be very wary of any downloaded files or links as they can be spoofed with a very dangerous attack payload.


Hopefully, this will give you tips to help avoid errors updating your computer from Windows 10 to Windows 11. If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm always available.


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Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone.


Need computer or technology help? If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829.


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The above content is provided for information purposes only. All information included therein is subject to change without notice. I am not responsible for any direct or indirect damages, arising from or related to the use of or reliance on the above content.



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