How to Disable Windows 7 Auto-Update Restart

Auto-restart can be annoying when you are in the middle of an important task.

The auto-update feature in Windows 7 is a great convenience. Installing automatic updates as they become available helps to keep your computer secure and up to date with the latest bug fixes and security patches. You should have this option enabled, but it can be annoying when Windows repeatedly nags you to reboot your computer after an update. You will be happy to know that you can easily disable auto-restart on your PC.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Administrator access

1. Click the Windows “Start” menu. Type "gpedit.msc" (without quotes) in the Search box and press “Enter.” The Local Group Policy Editor launches.

2. Click “Computer Configuration” on the left side of the window. Click “Administrative Templates” and then click “Windows Components.” Scroll down and select “Windows Update.”

3. Double-click the option for "No auto-restart with logged on users for scheduled automatic update installations." In the Properties window that appears, change the option from "Not Configured" to "Enabled." Click "OK" and close the Local Group Policy Editor window. You will no longer be prompted to restart your computer after Windows installs auto-updates.

Tips & Warnings

• Even though Windows will not nag you to reboot after an auto-update, you must still restart your computer for the updates to take effect.

• Making careless changes in the Local Group Policy Editor may cause your computer to stop working. Be very careful when using this feature.

References

• Eches.net: How to Disable Windows 7 Auto Update Restart
• TechSpot: Prevent Windows Update From Automatically Restarting Your PC