If you want to stop the automatic updates of a specific device driver on your Windows PC, then follow the methods shared in this article.

Windows seeks to automatically download and install a matching hardware driver when you connect a new gadget to your tablet, laptop, or computer. Later on, Windows Update will let the operating system automatically update the device driver. Generally speaking, this is the best method as it assures the installation of the most recent driver versions confirmed by Microsoft. Sometimes, however, the user prefers the old/legacy driver version and wishes them not to be automatically upgraded via Windows Update.

Although it is advised that the newest drivers be installed as they fix security flaws and raise dependability, this is not always the case. Usually speaking, rookie drivers might be erratic and jerky. If you want Windows to not automatically update your present driver(s) and remain on them. While the rest of the drivers may keep upgrading generally, this article shows how you can block certain hardware drivers from updating. So any further ado let’s jump right into it.

Methods to Disable Device Drivers Update On Windows 10

Continue reading this article to learn about the different methods with which you can easily disable the automatic updates for your Windows drivers without using the Driver Updater Windows 10 app.

Method 1: Stop The Automatic Updates Using Group Policy Editor

The first approach is manually adjusting the Group Policy Editor. To limit update installation on a certain disk of your choice, just enter the system and modify the parameters accordingly. Here are some instructions that will help you understand the process much better.

Step1: Right-click on the Windows icon present on the taskbar to open the Start menu’s context list.

Step2: Select the Device Manager tool from the list of options.

Step3: Expand the driver section for which you want to disable the automatic updates.

Step4: Double-click on the device driver to open the Properties window.

Step5: Go to the Details tab section.

Step6: Now, select the Hardware ID option from the Property dropdown menu.

Step7: Copy all the IDs available and then paste the data into the notepad.

Step8: Simultaneously press the Windows and X buttons on your keyboard and then enter gpedit.msc. Choose the option "Run As Administrator."

Step9: Proceed along this route: 

“ Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Device  Installation > Device Installation > Restrictions ”

Step10: Choose to prohibit the installation of devices that have any of these specified device IDs.

Step11: Within the Policy box, choose the option to Enable, and then choose to Show.

Step12: Manually transfer the identification numbers individually from the saved document and insert them into distinct columns designated for each volume.

Step13: Preserve modifications and terminate Group Policy Editor.

Step14: During the next update, you will get a notification indicating an error. This confirms that the adjustments were effective and the chosen drivers will no longer be installed.

Method 2: Use The Registry Editor To Disable The Automatic Updates

Additionally, you have the option to generate a Registry File that will modify the Windows Registry to prevent automatic driver updates for certain device IDs. We will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to create a .reg file since it will need modification based on your hardware ID. Therefore, adhere to the methods provided below to disable automatic driver updates using the Registry Editor.

Step1: To use the Registry Editor, open the Run dialog box and enter "regedit". Then, copy and paste the following text into the address bar to quickly navigate:

“ Computer > HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE > Policies > Microsoft > Windows ”

Step2: To create a new key in Windows, right-click and choose "New" from the context menu, then choose "Key".

Step3: Assign the label "WindowsUpdate" to the newly created key.

Step4: To perform the desired action, please follow these steps: right-click on WindowsUpdate, choose the option to expand the menu, and then choose DWORD (32-bit) Value.

Step5: Assign the label "ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate" to this newly created DWORD.

Step6: To set the Value Data of ExcludeWUDriversInQualityUpdate to 1, double-click on it and then click OK.

Step7: Please reboot your computer for the modifications to be applied.

Windows Update will cease to download or install driver updates. If you choose to reactivate this function at a later time, you may easily remove the DWORD you made and restart your computer.

Wrapping Up

Drivers provide hardware additional dependability as we have already discussed in this essay as well as security updates. Disabling driver updates completely would be foolish as it would expose your PC and hardware to weaknesses attackers may use. Once your work is finished or when you are certain the available update is stable and free from faults, we advise you to re-enable automatic driver updates.