Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsTo choose when a pending Windows 11 update restarts your PC, go to Settings > Windows Update and select Schedule the restart if it appears. For routine protection against restarts during your usual work hours, set Active hours; to delay updates for a short time, use Pause updates. These are different controls, and pausing is temporary.
Choose the right restart control
| Control | What it does | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule the restart | Sets a time for a restart required by a pending update. | An update is ready and you want to pick a specific restart time. |
| Active hours | Tells Windows when you normally use the PC so it can avoid automatic restarts during those hours. | You want to reduce interruptions during your usual routine. |
| Pause updates | Temporarily delays updates until a selected date. | You need a short deferral before updates resume. |
Windows Update installs updates automatically by default when they are available, except in cases such as metered connections. You generally do not need to schedule each update yourself. Microsoft’s Windows Update FAQ explains the default behavior and restart options.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Schedule a one-time restart
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Schedule the restart. This option appears when Windows has an update ready for a restart.
- Choose a convenient time.
Windows tries to restart when the device is not in use. If it cannot, it will ask you to schedule the restart for a more convenient time, according to Microsoft’s guidance.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Set active hours for your normal schedule
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Under Active hours, choose Automatically to let Windows adjust the hours based on device activity, or choose Manually to set the hours yourself.
Active hours help Windows avoid automatic restarts when you are likely to be using the PC. They do not block every restart or defer updates indefinitely. For details, see Microsoft’s instructions for keeping your PC up to date with active hours.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Pause updates when you need more time
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- Under Pause updates, select Pick a date.
- Choose an available end date.
Microsoft documents a maximum pause of 35 days from the current date. Updates that might require a restart are held until the pause ends; Windows then checks for and installs available updates. Pausing is not a permanent way to turn off automatic updates. See Microsoft’s pause-updates guidance.
What to know about Windows 11’s monthly restart rollout
Microsoft’s support article, published August 14, 2026, describes a combined-restart experience for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1, across all editions. For certain updates released on and after July 28, 2026, updates that require a restart may be held and combined with the monthly security update so they share one restart. The rollout is gradual and may not yet be available on every device. The update types identified as aligning to the monthly security update include drivers delivered through Windows Update, .NET updates, and firmware updates. See Microsoft’s one-restart-a-month article.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
When this experience applies, Windows schedules the restart outside active hours when possible. To restart sooner, use one of these options:
- Settings > Windows Update > Restart now
- Start > Power > Update and restart
- Start > Power > Update and shut down
Not every update waits for the monthly restart. Microsoft lists Defender security intelligence, AI component, critical or expedited driver, and emergency or out-of-band updates as exceptions that install as soon as available. The combined-restart behavior is therefore version-scoped and rolling out gradually, not a guarantee that all updates will wait.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
When none of the controls solves the problem
- If Schedule the restart is not shown, Windows may not have a pending update restart to schedule.
- If the PC must remain protected but you only need to avoid a particular busy period, adjust active hours rather than pausing updates.
- If you pause updates, expect Windows to resume checking and installing available updates when the selected date arrives.
For general installation information, consult Microsoft’s Windows Updates installation guide.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
