Thinking about staying on Windows 10 and avoiding the upgrade to Windows 11? You’re not alone. Many users are happy with Windows 10’s familiar interface and don’t want to deal with the potential bugs or changes that come with upgrading. In this guide, you’ll learn how to stop or block the Windows 11 update and continue using Windows 10 without interruptions.
Why Stay on Windows 10 Instead of Upgrading to Windows 11?
Before diving into the methods, let’s address why some people want to avoid the update.
Familiar Interface and Stability
Windows 10 is a mature, stable system with fewer unexpected changes.
Hardware Compatibility
Not all PCs meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, and forcing the upgrade may cause issues.
Software Compatibility
Some older apps and drivers work better on Windows 10.
Preference for Familiarity
If you’re comfortable with Windows 10, there’s no need to rush the upgrade.
Is It Safe to Block the Windows 11 Update?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you still install important security updates for Windows 10. Microsoft has promised to support Windows 10 with security patches until October 14, 2025.
Methods to Avoid Windows 11 Upgrade
Here are multiple ways to stop the upgrade to Windows 11. Choose the one that works best for you.
Method 1 – Pause Updates Temporarily
This method stops updates for a limited time.
Step 1 – Open Settings
Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2 – Go to Update & Security
Select Update & Security → Windows Update.
Step 3 – Pause Updates
Click Pause updates for 7 days (you can extend this for several weeks).
Method 2 – Use Group Policy Editor (Pro and Enterprise Versions)
This method prevents the upgrade from being offered.
Step 1 – Open Group Policy Editor
Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
Step 2 – Navigate to the Update Settings
Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update → Windows Update for Business.
Step 3 – Select Target Version
Enable the setting Select the target Feature Update version and set it to 21H2 or 22H2 (latest Windows 10 version).
Method 3 – Block the Upgrade via Registry Editor
If you have Windows 10 Home, this method works well.
Step 1 – Open Registry Editor
Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Step 2 – Navigate to the Key
Go to:
Step 3 – Create or Modify Values
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Create a new DWORD named TargetReleaseVersion and set it to 1.
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Create another String value named TargetReleaseVersionInfo and set it to 21H2 or 22H2.
Method 4 – Disable Windows 11 Installation Assistant
Sometimes the upgrade installs via the Installation Assistant.
Steps
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Uninstall the Windows 11 Installation Assistant if it’s present in your apps list.
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Delete any downloaded Windows 11 files from
C:\$WINDOWS.~BT(if available).
Method 5 – Use Third-Party Tools
Some tools like StopUpdates10 or WuMgr allow you to block unwanted upgrades easily.
Note
Only download trusted tools and back up your system before using them.
Method 6 – Modify Windows Update Settings
You can restrict feature updates but still receive security patches.
Steps
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Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Advanced options.
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Under Choose when updates are installed, set the feature update delay for up to 365 days.
How to Confirm the Upgrade Is Blocked
After applying the changes:
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Go to Windows Update settings and check if Windows 11 is still being offered.
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If it no longer appears, your block is working.
Risks of Blocking Windows 11 Upgrade
Security Concerns
Blocking all updates could make your system vulnerable.
Limited Support
Windows 10 support will end in 2025, meaning no more updates afterward.
Missed Features
You may miss out on new Windows 11 features and performance improvements.
Best Practices for Staying on Windows 10
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Keep security updates enabled.
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Back up your data regularly.
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Re-evaluate the decision before October 2025.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to rush into Windows 11 if you’re happy with Windows 10. By using the methods above—whether through Group Policy, Registry tweaks, or simply pausing updates—you can stay on Windows 10 and keep your system stable. Just remember, after 2025, upgrading may become essential for continued support and security.
FAQs
1. Can I completely block Windows 11 forever?
Yes, but after October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive updates, which may force an eventual upgrade.
2. Do I lose security updates if I block Windows 11?
Not if you only block feature upgrades—you’ll still get security patches.
3. Can I go back to Windows 10 after upgrading?
Yes, within 10 days of upgrading, you can roll back to Windows 10.
4. Is Windows 11 better than Windows 10?
It depends. Windows 11 has a modern interface and performance improvements, but not all users prefer the changes.
5. Do I need special software to block Windows 11?
No, built-in methods like Group Policy and Registry Editor are usually enough.