By default, Windows 11 handles application updates in the background. If you download an app like Spotify, Netflix, or WhatsApp from the Microsoft Store, Windows will quietly download and install new versions of those apps whenever they become available. While this is great for security and ensures you always have the latest features, it can be problematic if you are on a metered internet connection with a strict data cap, or if a recent app update introduced bugs that you want to avoid. If you prefer to manually review and approve app updates, you can disable the automatic update feature.
How to Stop Automatic Store Updates
This setting is controlled directly inside the Microsoft Store application, not the main Windows System Settings.
- Open the Microsoft Store app (click the shopping bag icon on your taskbar, or search for it in the Start menu).
- Look at the very top of the window, near the search bar. Click on your Profile picture (or the generic profile silhouette if you have not uploaded a picture).
- Select Settings from the drop-down menu.
- At the very top of the Settings page, you will see a toggle labelled App updates (Update apps automatically).
- Click the switch to move it to the Off position.
How to Update Apps Manually
Now that automatic updates are paused, your apps will remain on their current versions forever unless you intervene.
To update an app manually, open the Microsoft Store, click on the Library icon in the bottom-left corner, and click the Get updates button at the top right. You can then choose to “Update all” or click the individual update button next to specific apps you wish to upgrade.