It’s only been a few weeks since Microsoft Windows 10 was released, and some users have chosen to keep their familiar Windows 7 or 8 versions. Microsoft quietly pushed an update several months prior to its Windows 10 release that prompted users to review the latest Windows 10 from the system tray. Now, users can use the icon to upgrade, but some have chosen to remain with older operating systems.
The system tray icon didn’t receive too much backlash, but what does bother users is the incessant reminder to upgrade to Windows 10. It’s even referred to as PC spam by users complaining that the ads won’t stop. Complaints are so numerous that Microsoft even created a support page that instructs users on how to opt-out of the upgrade.
How to Stop Windows 10 Upgrade Reminders
Windows upgrades through the Update component. If you automatically download and update your operating system, you probably don’t even know the Windows Update utility exists, but you can control the way Windows updates with it. To manage the upgrade rule, you must edit the computer’s registry settings.
Before you edit the registry, make sure you have a backup. You can either make a full image backup, or a restore point in case of errors. You only need to change one registry setting, so it shouldn’t harm the computer, but it’s best to have a backup.
If you want to opt-out of the Windows 10 update completely, follow these steps.
- Open the registry editor by typing “regedit” in the Run text box.
- Drill down to the following registry key:
HKLMSOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWindowsUpdate
- Change the DisableOSUpgrade value to 1.
- Reboot your computer.
That’s all it takes to stop the upgrade. Just remember that you have until summer next year to change your mind. Users with the upgrade have reported that it’s easy to switch, but you shouldn’t upgrade unless you have the necessary system requirements. Fortunately, Windows 7 had similar requirements, so your system should be able to handle the upgrade. Eventually, you should upgrade to the new operating system if Microsoft no longer supports it.
