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To delay Windows 11 updates temporarily, open Start > Settings > Windows Update and choose an end date under Pause updates. Microsoft currently documents a limit of up to 35 days. If you only want to keep update restarts away from your usual working hours, set Active hours instead; that does not pause updates.
Pause Windows 11 updates until a chosen date
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- On the Pause updates control, select Pick a date.
- Choose an available date in the calendar. Microsoft documents pausing updates for up to 35 days from the current date, and the calendar limits the dates it offers accordingly. See Microsoft’s Pause updates in Windows guidance.
The pause is temporary: it delays updates that might require a restart and prevents an automatic restart to finish installing those updates until the pause ends. Windows then checks for, downloads, and installs the latest available updates. You can also resume updates manually before the selected date.
Choose between pausing updates and controlling restart timing
| Option | What it changes | Duration or limit | What happens next |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pause updates | Temporarily delays updates that might require a restart. | Up to 35 days, according to Microsoft’s current guidance. | Windows resumes checking for and installing available updates when the pause ends. |
| Active hours | Helps prevent automatic update restarts while you usually use the device; it does not pause updates. | Set hours manually or let Windows adjust them based on device activity. | Updates can still install; restart timing is managed to avoid your active hours where possible. |
| Schedule the restart | Lets you choose a convenient restart time when Windows offers the option. | Choose from the times available on your device. | The restart is scheduled for the selected time. |
Use Active hours to avoid restarts during work
- Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Active hours.
- Choose automatic adjustment based on device activity, or set the hours manually.
Active hours are useful when you want Windows to avoid restarting during the period you normally use your PC, but still want updates to proceed. For details, see Microsoft’s Active hours guidance.
Schedule a restart when Windows offers it
If Windows Update presents a scheduled-restart option, open Settings > Windows Update > Schedule the restart and choose a convenient time. The control and its wording can vary as features roll out. Microsoft’s Windows Update FAQ describes this option.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Can you stop Windows 11 updates permanently?
No. Microsoft says updates cannot be stopped entirely and must eventually be downloaded and installed to help keep the device secure. A pause is a short-term delay, not a permanent off switch. The options above let you choose a brief delay or manage when restarts are least disruptive.
What to know about recent update restart changes
Microsoft’s August 14, 2026 article describes a monthly combined-restart experience rolling out gradually for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1. It may not be available on every device. In that experience, driver, .NET, and firmware updates may share a restart with the monthly security update. Some Defender security intelligence, AI component, critical or expedited driver, and emergency or out-of-band updates may still install as soon as available. See Microsoft’s update restart rollout details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
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