Microsoft has rolled out significant changes to Windows Update, giving users unprecedented control over when updates are installed. The most notable addition is the ability to pause Windows 11 updates indefinitely, in 35-day increments.
Previously, users could pause updates for a limited time, but now they can reset the 35-day limit as often as needed. While Microsoft encourages users to eventually install updates—most of which include critical security upgrades—it now allows users to decide when updates occur.
Aria Hanson, a Microsoft representative, explained in a blog post that these changes were made in response to consistent user feedback highlighting the disruption caused by untimely updates and insufficient control over update timing.
In addition to indefinite pausing, Microsoft has ensured that Windows 11 users can shut down or restart their devices without being forced to install updates. This builds on a recent update that allowed users to skip updates during the initial setup of new Windows devices.
The latest Windows Update features are currently available to users enrolled in the Windows Insider program, specifically those in the Dev and Experimental Channels.