By default, Windows is set to restart automatically after installing updates. This sometimes happens while you’re working on something and step away from the computer, and it can be obnoxious. It is possible to turn this setting off. However, Friendly Computers advises you to make sure to install updates regularly, as they often contain important security updates that if not installed, could leave your computer open to attack. Read more below…
This particular annoyance happened to me not long ago, and I lost some in-progress work as a result. (Note to Microsoft: beyond inexcusable, guys. Beyond inexcusable.)
Actually, I'd instructed the Windows Update pop-up to postpone rebooting for four hours--and just happened to be away from the PC when that timer ran out. Unlucky me.
There's a ridiculously easy fix for this, and I'm kicking myself for not applying it sooner. If you've been plagued by the same problem, here's what you need to do:
- In Vista, click Start, type Windows Update, and then hit Enter.
- Click the Change Settings option.
- Change the setting to "Download updates but let me choose whether to install them."
- Click OK.
That's all there is to it. Windows may still nag you about installing updates, but at least it won't reboot without your permission.
