Windows Update: FAQ
Applies to: Windows 11
Last updated: September 18, 2026
- Updates download, install, then often need a restart to finish replacing files that are in use.
- Active hours tell Windows when not to restart on its own. Set them in Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Pause updates delays quality updates for a limited time. It is a temporary switch, not a permanent off switch.
- Feature updates are larger and change Windows more noticeably. They can take longer and need more free disk space.
- You can see names and dates under Update history. That list is the right place to confirm what actually installed.
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