How to Disable Restart for Windows Update in Vista

Disable Windows Update reminders in Vista using the command prompt.

Microsoft periodically revises its Windows Vista operating system to fix bugs, update features and services, and improve performance. These changes are delivered through the system's built-in Windows Update feature, which automatically downloads and installs updates by default. Because some updates can only be finalized by restarting the system, Vista periodically prompts users with a reminder message that gives them the option of restarting immediately or being reminded to reboot later. If you intend to restart on your own and do not require prompting, use the command prompt to temporarily disable the Windows Update reminder.

Things You'll Need

• Administrator login information

Instructions

1. Click the Windows "Start" button, select "All Programs," and then select "Accessories."

2. Right-click the "Command Prompt" option and select "Run as Administrator."

3. Click "Continue" when prompted. If you are not currently logged in as the administrator, provide your administrator user name and password, and then click "OK" instead.

4. Type the following: net stop "windows update"

5. Press the "Enter" key to run the command.

References

• How-To Geek: Temporarily Disable Windows Update's Automatic Reboot in Win7 or Vista
• Windows Guides: Stop Windows Update Restart Now Prompts
• Microsoft Windows Vista: Security & Safety