To stop Windows 11 from installing driver-classified updates through Windows Update, enable the administrator policy Do not include drivers with Windows Updates. It excludes those packages from the normal quality-update cycle, but it does not prevent every driver installation.
Enable the Windows Update driver exclusion policy
On a Windows 11 device with the Local Group Policy Editor, sign in with an administrator account and use this path:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Open the Local Group Policy Editor.
- Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.
- Open Do not include drivers with Windows Updates.
- Select Enabled, then select Apply and OK.
Microsoft says enabling this policy excludes driver packages offered through Windows Update. If the policy is disabled or not configured, Windows Update includes updates classified as drivers. See Microsoft’s Windows Update client policy documentation and its Update policy CSP reference.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWhat the policy does—and does not—block
This setting applies to driver packages classified as Windows Update drivers in the normal quality-update cycle. Microsoft explicitly says it does not apply to drivers provided with Windows in a security or critical update, or to drivers that may be dynamically installed during a feature update so the upgrade can complete. It is not a universal switch for all driver delivery.
#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
Accordingly, do not rely on this policy to block a driver installed by a manufacturer’s installer, a manually installed package, or a driver bundled with Windows itself. The documented scope is the Windows Update driver category.
For devices managed by an organization
Administrators managing devices through MDM can use the Update Configuration Service Provider setting Update/ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate. Set its value to 1 to exclude Windows Update drivers from quality updates. Microsoft also documents the corresponding policy value at HKLMSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWindowsUpdateExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate; value 1 excludes those drivers.
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.
On a managed computer, use the organization’s policy or MDM management process rather than making an isolated registry change. The registry mapping is useful to administrators verifying policy configuration, not a required step for ordinary users.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【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 #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Do not confuse this with other driver controls
- Point and Print restrictions concern printer-driver installation permissions; they are not the general Windows Update driver-exclusion policy. Microsoft’s printer driver security policy documentation describes a separate restriction.
- Windows driver signing policy concerns whether kernel-mode drivers meet signing and enforcement requirements. It is not a way to stop Windows Update from offering driver packages. Changing signing enforcement can prevent drivers from loading and is not the routine fix for an unwanted update. See Microsoft’s Windows driver policy documentation.
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.
