Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →In Windows 11, open Start > Settings > Windows Update and choose a date under Pause updates. To reduce restart interruptions while you work, set Active hours in Windows Update’s advanced options; if a restart is already pending, choose Schedule the restart when that option appears. These controls delay updates or restarts temporarily—they do not turn updates off permanently.
Choose the control that fits what you need
| Control | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Pause updates | Temporarily delays updates that require a restart. | You need a short break from update downloads and installations. |
| Active hours | Helps prevent automatic restarts during hours you select. | You want Windows to avoid restarting while you normally use the PC. |
| Schedule the restart | Sets a time for a restart after an update is ready. | A restart is pending and Windows offers the scheduling option. |
How to pause updates in Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- Under Pause updates, choose a date.
Microsoft’s current guidance allows a pause end date up to 35 days from the current date. If you extend a pause later, the new end date must still be within 35 days of that later date; the earlier paused period is not added to the window. (Microsoft Support: Pause updates in Windows)
While updates are paused, updates that require a restart are not downloaded or installed. If an update is already in progress when you pause, Microsoft says that update is canceled. When the pause expires—or if you resume updates manually—Windows checks for updates and downloads and installs the latest available updates. The pause is therefore a temporary delay, not a way to avoid updates indefinitely. (Microsoft Support: Pause updates in Windows)
Reduce restart interruptions with Active hours
Active hours help Windows avoid automatically restarting while you are using the PC. They do not pause update downloads or installations.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Connectivity: Includes WiFi, Bluetooth, and LAN for wireless and wired connections
- Memory: Features 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking and performance
- Storage: Combines 500GB SSD and 1TB HDD for ample storage space
- Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 for crisp visuals and video playback
- Design: Sleek desktop tower with black color and slim profile for modern look
Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Open Active hours and choose automatic adjustment or set the hours manually.
Windows 10
- Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Select Change active hours.
- Turn on automatic adjustment or set the start and end times manually.
Microsoft says Active hours help prevent automatic restarts during the selected hours. (Microsoft Support: Keep your device up to date with active hours)
Schedule a restart that is already pending
When Windows Update says a restart is needed, look for Schedule the restart on the Windows Update page. Select it and choose a convenient time. The option is available when Windows offers it; it is separate from setting recurring Active hours. Windows also tries to restart when you are not using the PC, and Active hours help constrain automatic restart timing. (Microsoft Support: Windows Update FAQ; Microsoft Support: Keep your device up to date with active hours)
Rank #2
- [INTEL POWERED CONTENT] - Built with a 8th Generation Hexa-Core Intel i5 and 32GB of DDR4 RAM; Modern, Windows 11 ready, with 4K support, Executive multitasking, media streaming and smooth, multi-tab web browsing; Perfect as an all-purpose multimedia computer; built for content creators; Plenty of RAM and Mass storage for photo and video editing powered by Intel HD 630
- [LATEST WIRELESS TECH] - This Dell Desktop Computer easily connects to the internet through the Built In WiFi / Bluetooth
- [SOLID STATE STORAGE] - This Dell Computer setup comes with an ultra-fast 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD); Setup as the primary boot device; Boot and load programs with lightning speed ; Additional expansion available
- [BUY & OWN WITH CONFIDENCE] - From the world's largest Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher; Quality Guarantee and Free Tech Support; Award-winning Customer Service; | Support Sustainable Business
- [MODERN HI-SPEED PORTS] - USB 3.0 (x4) | USB 2.0 (x4) | DisplayPort (x1) | HDMI Port (x1) | Audio Combo Jack (x1) | Audio Out (x1) | RJ-45 Ethernet (x1) | Internal SATA (x3)
Windows 10 pause options and support status
For applicable Windows 10 versions, open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Select Pause updates for 7 days, or open Advanced options and choose a resume date. Set restart protection separately through Change active hours.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft says that after that date it no longer provides free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. (Microsoft: Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025)
Rank #3
- Model: Dell OptiPlex 7050 Small Form Factor (SFF)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-7700 3.60 GHz
- Memory: 32GB DDR4 Ram
- Storage: 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD) Fast Boot + Storage
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro (64-bit)
What to know about metered connections and newer Windows 11 updates
A metered connection is a separate network setting, not an equivalent to pausing updates. Microsoft says updates will not download on a metered connection until the device is no longer using one. Use the pause setting when you need a defined temporary delay; do not treat a metered connection as a permanent update control. (Microsoft Support: Keep your device up to date with active hours)
Microsoft’s August 14, 2026 guidance describes a change for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1: updates released on or after July 28, 2026 combine certain driver, .NET, and firmware updates with the monthly security update restart. The experience is rolling out gradually, so it may not be present on every device; some updates still install promptly. (Microsoft Support: Windows Update improvements for Windows 11)
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
