Stop Windows 11 from Automatically Updating Drivers

Windows 11 frequently bundles hardware driver updates with regular system updates, which can occasionally overwrite stable, manufacturer-specific, or custom drivers with generic alternatives. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions to prevent Windows Update from automatically replacing your drivers using the Local Group Policy Editor, the Windows Registry, and System Properties.

Method 1: Use the Local Group Policy Editor (Windows 11 Pro & Enterprise)

The Group Policy Editor is the safest and most direct method to exclude drivers from Windows Updates.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the left pane, navigate to:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage updates offered from Windows Update
  4. In the right pane, double-click the policy named Do not include drivers with Windows Updates.
  5. Select the Enabled option in the top-left corner of the window.
  6. Click Apply, then click OK.
  7. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Method 2: Use the Registry Editor (Windows 11 Home & Pro)

Windows 11 Home does not include the Group Policy Editor, but you can achieve the same result using the Windows Registry.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the following key:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
  3. Check if a subkey named WindowsUpdate exists under Windows. If it does not:
    • Right-click the Windows folder, select New > Key, and name it WindowsUpdate.
  4. Select the WindowsUpdate key.
  5. Right-click an empty space in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate.
  6. Double-click ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate, set its Value data to 1, and ensure the Base is set to Hexadecimal.
  7. Click OK, close the Registry Editor, and restart your PC.

Method 3: Change Device Installation Settings

This built-in setting stops Windows from automatically downloading manufacturer apps and custom icons for your devices.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter to open System Properties.
  2. Switch to the Hardware tab.
  3. Click the Device Installation Settings button.
  4. In the prompt asking “Do you want to automatically download manufacturers’ apps and custom icons available for your devices?”, select No (your device might not work as expected).
  5. Click Save Changes, then click OK to close System Properties.