How to Set Active Hours and Avoid Sudden Updates on Windows 11
Typically, the installation of Windows updates necessitates a system restart, which can cause disruptions during critical work sessions. However, by configuring active hours, you’re able to define the specific times during which you generally use your computer for work. Once you do, Windows will schedule update installations to occur outside of these active hours, ensuring that your work sessions remain uninterrupted.
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1. How to Set Active Hours Manually via the Settings App
The Settings app in Windows gives you several options for managing the installation of Windows updates. Here’s how you can use it to set active hours on Windows 11.
2. How to Set Active Hours Manually Using the Group Policy Editor
Although the Group Policy Editor on Windows is commonly used to manage advanced system-level settings, you can also use it to set active hours on your computer.
Note that Group Policy Editor is only available on Professional, Education, and Enterprise editions of Windows. If you use Windows Home, check our guide onhow to access Group Policy Editor on Windows Homebefore proceeding.
Follow these steps to set active hours on Windows using the Group Policy Editor.
3. How to Set Active Hours Manually With the Registry Editor
Another method for setting active hours involves tweaking the Windows Registry.
Although setting active hours via the Registry Editor is a straightforward process, it’s important to be cautious, as incorrect changes made to registry files can render your PC inoperable. If you opt for this method, make sure you eitherback up all the registry filesorcreate a restore pointbefore proceeding.
4. How to Configure Windows to Set Active Hours Automatically
You can also configure Windows to set active hours automatically. Doing so will allow Windows to analyze your usage patterns and automatically adjust the active hours accordingly.
To configure Windows to set active hours automatically:
Setting Active Hours on Windows Is Easy
Once you set the active hours using one of the above methods, Windows will avoid initiating automatic restarts for updates during the specified period. As a result, you won’t be interrupted by sudden reboots during your work hours.
Microsoft makes it clear that you shouldn’t interrupt Windows Update. So what happens if you do?
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