Manage or Change Windows 10 Update Settings: How to Do It

All about the update settings in Windows 10

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Key notes

  • Windows 10 update settings are vital since new versions introduce features, enhance security, and boost the PC's performance.
  • Microsoft releases patches for known bugs via updates.
  • Optimally configuring the Windows Update settings will help deliver the best experience. 
manage or change windows 10 update settings

Windows 10 has changed many things, and one of those things is the Windows Update section and the dedicated settings. But honestly, they are more streamlined and optimally placed than before, making things all the easier.

So, while updating Windows remains the same, managing or changing the settings is now relatively easier. But for those still unsure about things, here is all you need to know about the Windows 10 update settings.

What are the changes to Windows 10 update settings?

1. Updates are not accessible from the Control Panel anymore

Maybe one of the biggest changes is that now you cannot access Windows Update from Control Panel. Instead, the only way to access Windows Update settings on Windows 10 is to use the Settings app and navigate to Update & Security section.

With Windows 10, all updates are installed automatically, and when you visit the Windows Update section, you’ll only find the Check for updates button that locates updates, and if any are available, it downloads them automatically.

2. Windows now download updates automatically

In addition, Windows 10 will also check for updates in the background and download them automatically.

This means that you won’t be able to select individual updates. Instead, you’ll automatically download all of the updates from security updates, optional updates to driver updates.

We should also mention that Windows Update won’t download updates on metered connections, so it won’t use your mobile data. Instead, it will download updates once you connect to a stable Wi-Fi network.

However, in order to prevent Windows Update from downloading updates, you have to set your current connection as metered.

Advanced options in Windows Updates

We also have to mention that Windows 10 Professional users will have the option to defer upgrades under the Advanced options section.

They will still get all the updates like Home users, but their updates might be delayed until they have been tested for some time by Home users.

Under the Advanced options, you can choose how updates are installed. You can choose Automatic, and Windows will download updates automatically, install them, and schedule a reboot when you’re not using your PC. You can also schedule a restart that will allow you to set a reboot at a specific time.

3. Peer-to-peer downloads

One new feature that Microsoft has introduced with Windows 10 is peer-to-peer download for updates.

For example, if you have multiple PCs in your network, you can choose to download updates directly from them and speed up the download process.

In addition, your PC will both send and receive updates from other Windows 10 computers over the Internet, but if you don’t want to send and receive updates from other computers on the Internet, you can turn this option off.

4. View history and uninstall updates

If, for some reason, you have issues with your PC after installing an update, you have the option to view your update history under the Advanced options.

Update history in Windows 10

You’ll see the list of updates there, but you can also uninstall an update if it’s causing any problems.

5. Updates remain unchanged after a reset

Probably one of the most useful features of Windows Update is the ability to keep your updates after you reset your PC.

Windows 10 comes with a PC Reset feature that will perform a clean install of Windows 10, but now you can keep your updates and won’t have to download all updates again.

That’s it! There are all the Windows 10 update settings and features you should know about! And by now, managing or changing these should be much easier.

Before you leave, find out how to fix Windows update errors and effortlessly install the latest version.

For any other queries or to share your feedback, drop a comment below.

More about the topics: windows 10, Windows Update