How to Stop Windows 11 from Updating Graphics Drivers in 2024

One common issue many users face is Windows 11 automatically updating graphics drivers, which can sometimes lead to compatibility issues or unwanted changes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prevent Windows 11 from updating your graphics drivers in 2024.

Why Stop Automatic Graphics Driver Updates?

Automatic updates can be convenient, but they aren’t always ideal. Here are a few reasons why you might want to disable them:

Stability: New driver updates can sometimes introduce bugs or compatibility issues.
Customization: You might prefer using a specific driver version that works best for your setup.
Control: Having control over which drivers are installed can help avoid unexpected changes.

Methods to Prevent Automatic Updates

There are several ways to stop Windows 11 from automatically updating your graphics drivers. Here are the most effective methods:

1. Using Group Policy Editor

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, you can use the Group Policy Editor to disable automatic driver updates:

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage updates offered from Windows Update.
Double-click on the Do not include drivers with Windows Updates policy.
Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.

This will prevent Windows Update from including driver updates.

2. Using Device Installation Settings

For all versions of Windows 11, you can change the device installation settings:

Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
Go to the Hardware tab and click on Device Installation Settings.
Select No (your device might not work as expected), then click Save Changes.

This setting will stop Windows from automatically downloading drivers.

3. Using the Registry Editor

Advanced users can use the Registry Editor to disable driver updates:

Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate.
Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate.
Double-click the new entry and set its value to 1.

This registry tweak will exclude driver updates from Windows Update.

4. Using the Show or Hide Updates Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a tool to hide specific updates:

Download the Show or Hide Updates troubleshooter from the Microsoft website.
Run the tool and select Hide updates.
Choose the graphics driver update you want to hide and follow the prompts.

This tool will prevent Windows from installing the hidden driver updates.

Conclusion

By following these methods, you can take control of your graphics driver updates in Windows 11. Whether you prefer using Group Policy, Device Installation Settings, the Registry Editor, or the Show or Hide Updates troubleshooter, each method offers a way to maintain stability and control over your system. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to optimize your Windows experience!