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To delay updates for a short time in Windows 11, open Start > Settings > Windows Update and choose an end date under Pause updates. To avoid automatic restarts while you are working, set Active hours. If an update is already waiting for a restart, use Schedule the restart. These are separate controls: only pausing delays updates themselves.
Choose the control that matches what you need
| Control | What it changes | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Pause updates | Temporarily delays update downloads and installations. | You need a short break from updates. |
| Active hours | Helps keep automatic restarts outside the hours you normally use the PC; it does not stop updates from downloading or installing. | You want updates to continue, but want to reduce interruptions during your usual work time. |
| Schedule the restart | Sets a more convenient time for a restart required to finish an update. | An update is ready and Windows is asking for a restart. |
Pause updates in Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- On the Pause updates control, select Pick a date.
- Choose an available end date. Microsoft Support says the Windows 11 date selector allows a pause of up to 35 days from the current date: Pause updates in Windows.
The selector limits the choices to the supported period. Pausing is temporary: Microsoft says, “This doesn’t permanently turn off automatic updates.” When the pause expires, Windows checks for, downloads, and installs the latest available updates.
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If an update is in progress when you pause, Windows cancels it. Updates that may require a restart are not downloaded or installed until the pause ends. If updates are already paused, you can choose a new end date, but it must still fall within 35 days of the current date. When the pause limit is reached, Microsoft says you must install the latest updates before you can pause again; see the Windows Update FAQ.
Set Active hours in Windows 11
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Select Active hours.
- Choose automatic adjustment or set the hours manually, as available on your device.
Active hours tell Windows when you normally use the PC so it can help avoid an automatic restart during that period. They do not pause update downloads or installations. Microsoft’s instructions are in Keep your PC up to date with active hours.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Schedule a restart for an update that is ready
When Windows has installed an update that requires a restart, Windows Update may offer a Schedule the restart option. Open Start > Settings > Windows Update, select that option, and choose a more convenient time from the choices shown. Microsoft notes that Windows may prompt you to schedule a restart; availability and prompts can depend on the update and device. This changes restart timing, not the update’s installation. See Microsoft’s Windows Update FAQ.
Windows 10: different menus and ended support
For the Windows 10 versions and editions covered by Microsoft’s instructions, pause controls are under Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. The page may offer Pause updates for 7 days or a resume date under Advanced options. Menu wording and availability differ from Windows 11, so check which version you use before following a path. Microsoft documents both paths in Pause updates in Windows.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft no longer provides free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10 after that date. Details are on Microsoft’s active hours support page.
A Windows 11 restart change is rolling out gradually
In an article published August 14, 2026, Microsoft described a gradual change for eligible Windows 11 devices running versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1. For those devices, some restart-requiring driver, .NET, and firmware updates released on or after July 28, 2026, are held to install with the monthly security update, aiming to complete them with one restart. Microsoft says Defender security intelligence updates, AI component updates, critical or expedited driver updates, and emergency or out-of-band updates are still installed as soon as available. The change is rolling out gradually and may not be available on every PC. See One restart a month for Windows updates.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
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