By Will McCurdy
Publication Date: 2026-04-26 11:52:00
If you’ve ever been frustrated about Microsoft forcing you to update Windows in the middle of a busy day or hard gaming session, you’re likely not alone. But now, in its latest batch of updates, Microsoft is making some changes that could render ill-timed Windows updates a thing of the past.
Windows will now clearly separate power actions from update actions. The Power menu will now show separate Restart and Shut down options, meaning users will now have a choice to just restart or shut down their device without having to install the pending update first. At the same time, update-specific choices like Update and restart and Update and shut down will be available if desired.
If users want to prevent unwanted distractions ahead of time when they’re planning around travel, conferences, exams, or even just busy work weeks, they will now be able to pause incoming updates for 35 days. Users can also choose a specific day of the month they want to pause updates until,…