Stopping Microsoft Store Automatic Updates

Are Forced App Updates Driving You Crazy? How to Regain Control of Your Microsoft Store Apps

Have you ever been in the middle of an important task, only to have your computer grind to a halt as the Microsoft Store automatically updates your apps? Many users find this disruptive, and recent changes mean you can no longer permanently disable these updates through the standard settings. This article dives into why Microsoft is forcing app updates, and more importantly, provides effective methods to manage and even stop automatic Microsoft Store app updates, giving you back control of your system.

Why the Sudden Change? Understanding Microsoft’s Stance on Automatic App Updates

Prior to a recent change, users could easily disable automatic updates for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps via a simple toggle within the Microsoft Store settings. This provided granular control, allowing individuals to choose when and how their apps were updated. Now, that option is limited to pausing updates for a maximum of five weeks, mirroring the behavior of Windows Updates. So, why did Microsoft remove the permanent disable option?

While Microsoft hasn’t officially stated the reason, security is the likely driving force. Regular app updates are crucial for several reasons:

• Security Patches: Updates often include fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities, protecting your system from potential threats.
• Bug Fixes: Developers release updates to address bugs, glitches, and performance issues. A recent personal experience highlights this: a Visual Studio Code app downloaded from the Microsoft Store was crashing frequently. An update from the developers resolved all the stability problems.
• New Features: Updates often introduce new features, improvements, and optimizations that enhance the user experience.

Microsoft likely believes that mandatory updates are necessary to ensure a secure and stable environment for all users. However, this approach removes user agency and can be frustrating for those who prefer to manage updates manually. The removal of the permanent disable option feels like Microsoft is taking on an admin role over your computer.

The Drawbacks of Forced Automatic Updates: Why You Might Want to Intervene

While the security benefits of automatic updates are undeniable, there are valid reasons why users might want to prevent Microsoft Store apps from updating automatically:

• Compatibility Issues: Sometimes, updates can introduce compatibility problems with existing software or hardware. This can lead to unexpected errors, crashes, or even system instability.
• Resource Consumption: Automatic updates can consume significant system resources, especially on older machines. This can lead to slowdowns, reduced performance, and increased battery drain.
• Bandwidth Usage: Downloading large updates can eat into bandwidth, particularly for users with limited data plans.
• User Preference: Some users simply prefer to have complete control over their systems and want to choose when and how their apps are updated.

Workarounds: Two Methods to Disable Automatic Microsoft Store App Updates

Despite Microsoft’s changes, there are still ways to regain control over your app updates. Here are two methods you can use:

1. The Registry Editor Method: Pausing Updates Indefinitely

This method utilizes the Windows Registry Editor to extend the “pause” duration for app updates far beyond the five-week limit imposed by the Microsoft Store settings. While it doesn’t technically disable updates, it effectively postpones them for an extended period (even decades!).

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Initial Pause: Open the Microsoft Store app, navigate to “Settings,” disable the “App Updates” toggle, select any pause duration, and click “Confirm.” This initializes the pause mechanism.

2. Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type regedit, and click “OK.”

3. Navigate to the Key: In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:

   Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\InstallService\State

4. Modify AutoUpdatePauseEndTime: Double-click the “AutoUpdatePauseEndTime” entry in the right pane.

5. Set a Future Date: In the “Value data” field, enter a date far into the future (e.g., 2045-01-01). Click “OK” to save the changes.

6. Restart: Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Verification:

After restarting, open the Microsoft Store settings again. The “App Updates” option should now display the extended pause date you entered in the Registry Editor.

Caution: Editing the Windows Registry can be risky if not done correctly. Back up your registry before making any changes. Incorrect modifications can lead to system instability. Learn how to backup your registry

2. The Local Group Policy Editor Method: Disabling Updates Permanently (Windows Professional and Higher)

This method, available only for Windows Professional, Enterprise, and Education editions, allows you to completely disable automatic app updates indefinitely.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open Local Group Policy Editor: Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and click “OK.”

2. Navigate to the Policy: In the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to:

   Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Store

3. Edit the Policy: Locate the policy named “Turn off automatic download and install of updates.” Double-click it.

4. Enable the Policy: In the policy window, select “Enabled.” Click “Apply” and then “OK.”

5. Restart: Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Comparison Table: Registry Editor vs. Local Group Policy Editor

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Q: How do I know if the changes have been applied?

• Registry Editor: Check the Microsoft Store settings. The “App Updates” option should display the date you entered.
• Local Group Policy Editor: There’s no direct confirmation in the Store settings. To verify, attempt to update an app manually. If automatic updates are disabled, it shouldn’t proceed automatically.

Q: What if I don’t see the “AutoUpdatePauseEndTime” entry in the Registry Editor?

If the entry doesn’t exist, you may need to create it. Right-click in the right pane, select “New,” and then “String Value.” Name it “AutoUpdatePauseEndTime” and then follow the steps above to modify its value.

Q: I have Windows Home edition. Can I use the Local Group Policy Editor?

No, the Local Group Policy Editor is not available in Windows Home edition. You’ll need to use the Registry Editor method.

Conclusion: Taking Back Control

While Microsoft’s decision to remove the permanent disable option for automatic app updates might be frustrating, these workarounds offer viable solutions for users who prefer more control. By utilizing the Registry Editor or the Local Group Policy Editor, you can effectively manage when and how your Microsoft Store apps are updated. Whether you want to prevent compatibility issues, conserve resources, or simply maintain control over your system, these methods provide the flexibility you need.

What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s decision to force app updates? Do you prefer automatic updates, or do you prefer to manage them manually? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!

Sources & Further Reading:
Original article at www.howtogeek.com