Overview
By default the Microsoft Store keeps installed apps up to date automatically. You might disable this to save bandwidth on a metered connection or to control exactly when apps change. This guide covers turning automatic Store updates on or off through several methods.
Key Takeaways
- The Microsoft Store updates apps automatically by default.
- You can toggle this in the Store’s settings.
- Group Policy and the registry enforce the setting on managed PCs.
- Disabling it means you must update apps manually.
Method 1: Store Settings
1. Open the Microsoft Store.
2. Click your profile icon and choose App settings (or Settings).
3. Toggle App updates off to stop automatic updates, or on to enable them.
4. Close and reopen the Store to confirm the change.
Method 2: Group Policy
1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Store.
3. Open Turn off Automatic Download and Install of updates.
4. Set it to Enabled to disable auto-updates, then click OK.
Note: Even with automatic updates off, you can update apps anytime from the Store’s Library or Downloads page.
Troubleshooting
Problem: The App updates toggle is greyed out.
Solution: A Group Policy or registry setting is enforcing it; change it there instead of in the Store.
Problem: Apps still update after disabling.
Solution: Confirm the policy applied with gpupdate /force and that no other management tool re-enables updates.
Problem: gpedit.msc is missing.
Solution: On Windows Home, use the corresponding registry value under the WindowsStore policies key.
Problem: An app is stuck on an old version.
Solution: Open the Store Library and update that app manually, or reset the Store cache with wsreset.exe.
Conclusion
Whether you want hands-off convenience or full control, managing Store auto-updates is simple. Use the Store settings for a quick change and Group Policy to enforce it across a managed machine.
About TechHub
This guide is part of the TechHub Knowledge Base. For more step-by-step IT guides and support, visit techhub.com.lk.
