The registry key for automatic updates is located at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsUpdate\Auto Update.
This key contains various settings that control how Windows Update functions, including:
- AUOptions: This value determines the update behavior.
- 0: Automatic updates are disabled.
- 1: Automatic updates are enabled.
- 2: Automatic updates are enabled, but users can choose when to install them.
- ScheduledInstallDay: This value defines the day of the week for scheduled updates.
- ScheduledInstallTime: This value specifies the time for scheduled updates.
These values can be modified using the Registry Editor or through Group Policy. However, changing these settings can affect the stability of your system, so proceed with caution.
Note: This registry key applies to Windows 10 and earlier versions. Windows 11 has a slightly different structure for managing automatic updates.
