Resolved How do I CONTROL Windows automatic reboot after updates?

It seems that Microsoft does not want us to avoid their automatic reboot when (automatic) updates are installed. I would like to control when my machine reboots, and have not found a way to do it where I have total control. I have read everything I can find on the subject, and tried so called fixes, including the one suggested in the only thread on this forum (that I could find) that seemed to be about this subject (started by: alboy, 2020/09/11). Changing active hours is not an option for me, as I frequently have processes running for more than 24 consecutive hours. I have tried:

System Properties->Startup and Recovery->Settings->uncheck [Automatically restart]

This appears to have not worked. I have also tried a couple of approaches with the Restart file(s) Reboot_AC, and Reboot_Battery (which I would think would not apply to a desktop machine, but I tweaked it anyway). These files are located at:

%windir%\System32\Tasks\Microsoft\Windows\UpdateOrchestrator

One forum suggested renaming the Reboot file. I tried it. Next update, the machine rebooted automatically anyway. It appears that Windows re-installed the Reboot files as part of the update process. Next, I renamed the Reboot files and created a new empty file, hoping Windows would be “fooled”. No joy. Lastly, I have now changed the (empty) Reboot files attributes to +S +H +R. I really do not have much faith that this will work either, but in desperation, I am giving it a go. I do not know how to test this attempt short of waiting for next month’s fixes. Anyone have any ideas? Based on the relative lack of recent complaints about this subject, I am beginning to think I am missing something. I am certainly open to ideas. Thanks.

My software level is: Windows 10 Pro, 21H1, OS build 19043.1237

 

I agree with Arie. I have all the options in Advanced Options set to OFF.
When I Shut down in the evening, if there is a need to Restart following an auto update, there is a RED dot visible in the Power Icon.
I do not leave any of my comps running continuously.

 

Thank you for the suggestion. That option has been switched off for a long time. My machine generally runs 24x7, but I typically reboot once per week.

 

Many of the changes made to the Windows Operating System by a updates, cannot be done while the Operating System is running. It must be shutdown, updates applied, and then started back up.

Much like you cannot change a tire while a car is rolling down the highway. Or maybe a surgeon replacing your heart while both new and old are still beating. You get the idea. It's just the nature of the beast.

 

Hi Doc, I think that also applies to "smart phones"
Must be a bummer for some people as the update takes total control and warns you not to 'reboot' or shut down as you will end up with a 'brick'
At least when there is power outage on a comp, Windows OS seems more robust and picks up where it left off.

 

Hey man.

What I try to do is plug whatever it is into a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) before letting it proceed. It's not always possible of course, but I do try.

 

I believe that I have found a solution that works for me. I found it at:

https://www.itechtics.com/disable-automatic-restart/

I performed both of the following (A & B):

A. Enable the Configure Automatic Updates Policy

1. Press the Windows Key + R to launch Run, and then type:
gpedit.msc

2. This will open Local Group Policy Editor. Navigate to the following through the left pane:
Computer Configuration –> Administrative Templates –> Windows Components –> Windows Update

3. Open Configure Automatic Updates.

4. Select Enabled, click on Apply and then OK.

5. Now navigate to the Windows Updates tab by opening up the Start Menu and clicking on the Settings (Gear) Icon. Click on Update & Security, then select Windows Update.In this window, you may now notice the sentence at the stop stating Some settings are managed by your organization. This means that the group policy we had previously set has been applied. You may now click Check for Updates and the updates will be installed, but only apply when you click Install Now.

6. Just click Install Now when you are ready to reboot your computer.


B. Enable the No Auto-Restart Policy

1. Press the Windows Key + R to launch Run, and then type:
gpedit.msc

2. This will open Local Group Policy Editor. Navigate to the following through the left pane:
Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Update

3. In the right pane, double-click the No auto-restart with logged on users for scheduled automatic update installations.

4. In the pop-up window, select Enabled end then click Apply and OK.

5. To make these changes take effect without restarting the computer, open up the Command Prompt by pressing the Windows Key + R to launch Run, and then type in cmd and press Enter.

6. Enter the following command in the Command Prompt:
gpupdate /force


Thank you to all that offered suggestions. Marking this thread as "Solved"