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Windows 10/11 updates ignore active hours? Try this
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Updating Windows 10is an integral part of what it means to keep your OS in neat condition.
It presumes downloading the latest upgrades, tweaks, and fixes for some of the most common problems reported.
However, restarts are usually needed forupdatedownloads to take effect.
Unfortunately, having to forcefully restart your PC isn’t all that convenient, especially when you are running a network of multiple PC’s.
Because of this, it is usually recommended to set your Windows Updates to not start downloads during active hours.
How to set up active hours on Windows 10:
You can also make the computer to automatically change your active hours based on your average PC usage.
However, some users are complaining thatWindows 10is ignoring this feature:
How can I stopWindows 10from performing it’s very large Windows Updates download during normal business hours? I have ‘Active Hours’ set to non-business hours butWindows 10will still download massive amounts of data over a limited WAN connection. […] I want the download to be done after hours when the office is closed and the computer left on as to have no negative business impact.
How do you make your Windows 10 to stop ignoring your active hours?
Please remember that active hours are not for controlling the download of Windows updates, but for installing the downloaded Windows updates.
It will keep downloading updates but will install only during specified active hours.
You absolutely have no control over the timing of Windows updates download.
As such, all you are left with is controlling when will yourPC restartfor certainupdatesto take effect.
1. Schedule update installation
These steps can only be followed by a groupadministratorrunningWindows Server 2019 version 1903and later:
By following these steps, you will forcerestart after the specified installation time.
This will also let you configure a timer to warn a signed-in user that a restart is going to occur.
2. Stop Automatic Updates altogether
If all else fails, simply considershutting down automatic updateson Windows 10, and installing them manually when you have the time.
3. Wait it out
If the problem persists even after both you and theadministratorhave followed these steps, all you can do is wait for a new patch that may fix this issue.
If you have any other suggestions or questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below and we’ll be sure to check them out.
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More about the topics:windows 10,windows server,Windows Update
Teodor Nechita
Eager to help those in need, Teodor writes articles daily on subjects regarding Windows, Xbox, and all things tech-related.
When not working, you may usually find him either at the gym or taking a stroll in the park, trying to find inspiration for the next articles he may write.
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