Microsoft Introduces Indefinite Windows Update Pauses and New Power-Menu Controls

Windows 11 now permits a 35-day update pause that can be reset indefinitely, and restores separate “Restart” and “Shut down” options in the Power menu.

Windows update pause: 35 days control, no restarts

User complaints about forced restarts repeatedly cited “disruption caused by untimely updates and not enough control over when updates happen.” Aria Hanson, principal product-manager lead, announced the changes in a blog post on 24 April 2026. The features first rolled out to Windows Insider members in the Dev and Experimental channels; a public release date is pending.

Engadget

The pause aligns updates with travel or critical work periods, reducing unexpected restarts. Microsoft notes most updates contain security fixes; delayed installs could expose devices. The company reviewed 7,621 user comments and cites over 1 billion Windows customers.

Microsoft introduces an indefinite pause option for Windows updates

Microsoft said the changes are “focused on giving Windows users more control over their PC experience, while keeping devices secure by design and by default.” It advises installing updates soon after release. The blog notes the calendar lets users set a pause-end date up to 35 days ahead.

Microsoft is finally letting you pause Windows 11 updates indefinitely and ‘restart on your own terms’Microsoft now lets users to pause Windows updates for 35 daysEngadgetMicrosoft revamps Windows with fewer reboots and new restart options for PCMicrosoft Looks Ready To Stop Forcing Windows Updates At The Worst TimeMicrosoft introduces an indefinite pause option for Windows updatesThe Register UKWindows update pause: 35 days control, no restarts

The Register warned that indefinite pauses may cause missed security patches, calling the update “a mixed blessing.” It argued that fewer reboots do not replace the need for reliable updates and suggested eliminating forced restarts.

Microsoft introduces an indefinite pause option for Windows updates

Public support pages say users must install the latest updates before resetting a pause, while the Insider test described by Microsoft allows unlimited resets without that step. Rollout remains limited to Insider participants; a general-release schedule is not set.

Microsoft Looks Ready To Stop Forcing Windows Updates At The Worst Time

• “disruption caused by untimely updates and not enough control over when updates happen.” — Aria Hanson, Principal Product Manager Lead, Microsoft

Engadget

• “This change is about making the Power menu more predictable, so when you need a quick restart or want to power off before heading out, Windows does exactly what you expect,” — Microsoft

Tested: Microsoft fixes the Windows 11 trap that installs updates when you want to shut down or reboot PC

• “Restarting or shutting down your PC should always be simple, predictable, and on your terms – even with updates waiting to be installed.” — Aria Hanson, Principal Product Manager Lead, Microsoft

Microsoft is finally letting you pause Windows 11 updates indefinitely and ‘restart on your own terms’

• “With a new calendar experience, you can choose a specific day of the month you want to pause until, up to 35 days, enabling you to plan around expected travel, conferences, exams, or even just busy weeks.” — Aria Hanson, Principal Product Manager Lead, Microsoft

Microsoft is finally letting you pause Windows 11 updates indefinitely and ‘restart on your own terms’

Microsoft will extend the pause and power-menu features beyond Insider channels, align driver, .NET and firmware updates with the monthly quality update, and aim for a single monthly restart for retail users. Further refinements will follow Insider feedback before a full public release.

Windows update pause: 35 days control, no restarts