Get guidance on disabling features such as Windows updates, Defender, and certain applications permanently.
Get guidance on disabling features such as Windows updates, Defender, and certain applications permanently.
You're looking to set up a lightweight Windows 10 installation with minimal storage use, disable updates entirely, and ensure no automatic recovery or reinstallation. Here’s what you can do:
- **Disable Windows Update**: Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update and turn it off completely.
- **Turn Off Real-Time Protection**: In Windows Defender settings, disable Real-Time Protection and set it to "Off" permanently—this prevents automatic scans without your intervention.
- **Remove Unwanted Apps**: Use a clean installation or a minimal installer. If you have apps you don’t need, uninstall them manually via Settings → Apps → App Management.
- **Storage Optimization**: After installation, empty the Recycle Bin and delete unnecessary files. Consider using a lightweight OS like Linux if you want even less storage.
- **Internet Restrictions**: Set up a local network or use a VPN to limit access to only essential sites, as you mentioned.
- **Security Note**: Since nothing will be saved, ensure your backup strategy is secure and consider keeping backups offline.
This setup should keep your PC fast, use minimal space, and prevent any automatic updates or reinstalls.
Configuration options are available through the registry or Group Policy Editor, eliminating the need for external tools https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows...-antivirus https://www.windowscentral.com/how-disab...windows-10 https://www.windowscentral.com/how-stop-...windows-10 https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-...telemetry/ Added fourth reference for disabling Microsoft telemetry Edited February 11, 2021 by Sp4gh3tti
do you have big files such as images or documents? then you can use google drive and other online storage options to keep some data and free up space on your pc. also look for old windows update files that are no longer needed—they can occupy several GB sometimes.
You're referring to installing a script that might harm Windows 10. Recent updates have added more settings and options for disabling features during installation. The built-in Defender won't automatically scan unless you turn it on. Unless you're addressing other concerns, this isn't something to worry about.
It's unclear just how severe the situation has become. I've only received updates, so I'm uncertain about the extent or whether improvements were made. The suggested link appears to be a video resource.
The situation becomes increasingly difficult each year. Also, appreciate the reminder about the missing link https://helpdeskgeek.com/windows-10/how-...telemetry/
Unfortunately, they're planning to further degrade Windows 10... will it happen soon?
When managing several PCs, you can easily restrict Windows updates by adding Microsoft domains to a network blacklist. This prevents the system from connecting and updating. Microsoft maintains a list of servers they recommend whitelisting; reversing this allows access. However, this approach limits options—blocking everything means missing out on necessary updates. Disabling defender was not done recently, but a third-party tool once helped me achieve this on a slow machine. The exact file isn’t recalled, but it worked for the task.
Would you like to check through the hosts file or use a router?