Windows Update service keep getting enabled

Question

I do not want Windows updates except for critical security patches & Defender updates.  I have stopped the Windows Update service & disabled it.  I have disabled automatic Windows store app updates & made my network a metered connection.  However, when I check the Update service from time to time, it is started & enabled.  How is this happening?   Since it appears there are no longer ways to select which updates one gets or turn off hardware updates to stop my drivers from getting whacked, I don't know what else to do to stop updates or at least control which ones I get.  Can anyone educate me on why the Update service starts itself even though it is in a stopped, disabled state?   BTW, I do not want the Windows Creators update installed on my pcs.

Answer 1

Hi Tom,

Fixes to identified bugs with the version that you're using are released via Windows Update therefore users can expect continuous release from Microsoft. The updates that we release are deemed as applicable to all users as it is either aims to resolve issues or add features to your device. We usually recommend keeping the default setting of the operating system when it comes to updates.

If you've experienced performance issues after installing a Windows Update, you can refer to this link to know more about how to temporarily prevent a Windows Update from reinstalling in Windows 10.

In the Fall Creators Update (version 1709), users have the option to pause updates up to 35 days. This is an added feature based on the feedback that we've received from our users. In metered data connections, downloading of major Windows Update is deferred until the feature is turned off. To make sure that these types of updates doesn't get through, you just need to disable it in Advanced options under the Windows Update section.

Having an option to choose which update to install is a brilliant idea. We'd recommend sending our team a message via the Feedback Hub application on your device and tell us what you'd like to see in Windows 10. This will help our team to improve the features, functionality, and performance of the software. To do this, you can perform the following:

1. On a Windows 10 device, search for “Feedback Hub” in Cortana search, then launch the app.
2. Navigate to Feedback in the left menu, then press + Add new feedback.
3. Select the Problem, and share any details you think are relevant, and choose an appropriate category and subcategory.

4. Important: If possible, reproduce the problem(s) after clicking Begin monitoring (or Start capture) near the end of the form; Stop monitoring when you’re done.

5. Once you’ve completed the form and monitoring, click Submit.
6. Click Continue using Feedback Hub.
7. Click My feedback at the top, then find the item you submitted (it may take a while to appear).
8. Open the item you submitted, then click Share.
9. Click Copy link, then paste the link here in your response (it will look like https://aka.ms/<unique link>).

Let us know should you need further assistance.

Answer 2

Hi. 

Since I neither have nor want the Fall Creator's Update, I don't get the screen above.  I do not have a touch screen nor do I want one.  I do not want my PC to mimic a smart phone.  Please leave the UI & drivers alone or give the option for a different UI every few months to those who want something new.  Didn't MS learn this with Windows 8?

When I go to the link you provided (https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/901037/how-to-enable-and-to-disable-microsoft-update), this information displays:

I am currently using Microsoft Update. How can I access Windows Update?

To stop using the Microsoft Update Web site and start using the Windows Update Web site, follow these steps:

1. On the Microsoft Update site, click Change Settings.

This option is not there.

Scroll down the page, click to select the Disable Microsoft Update software and let me use Windows Update only check box, and then click Apply changes now.

This option is not there.

My original question still has not been answered.  Why does the MS Update Service keep getting started when I have disabled it?

As far as putting forth a suggestion that users be able to control which updates are installed, this option used to be available in Windows 7.  Control has been removed from the user by Microsoft.  Why would I suggest something when MS is just going to do what it wants?

I'm all for fixes to bugs via updates. 

Regards,

Tom