Important Reality Check (Windows 11 behavior)

Windows Update does not consistently offer a clean “auto-download but never auto-install” switch in Settings.
The closest reliable setup is:

• Allow downloads automatically
• Prevent surprise installs/restarts by enforcing “no auto-restart while logged in” and requiring restart notifications
• You stay in control of when the install/restart actually happens

Step 1 — Windows Update Settings (baseline)

1) Make sure updates can download

Because you want automatic downloading, do not enable Metered Connection.

Settings → Network & Internet → Ethernet

• Set Metered connection = Off

2) Active hours (reduce restart pressure)

This prevents Windows from trying to restart during your work window.

Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Active hours

• Set to Manually and choose the widest window allowed

3) Restart notifications (required)

Make sure Windows must warn you before a restart is required.

Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options

• Enable: Notify me when a restart is required to finish updating (or similar wording)
• Disable (if present): Restart this device as soon as possible when required

Step 2 — Best Control (Windows 11 Pro): Group Policy

If you are on Windows 11 Pro, this is the cleanest way to keep updates from installing/restarting on their own.

Open Group Policy Editor

Win + R → gpedit.msc

Policy A: No auto-restart while logged in

Path:

Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Windows Update

(Often under: Windows Update → Manage end user experience)

• Enable: No auto-restart with logged on users for scheduled automatic updates installations

Policy B: Configure Automatic Updates (recommended)

For your goal, the best practical setting is:

• Enable: Configure Automatic Updates
• Select: 3 — Auto download and notify for install

What this accomplishes: Updates download automatically, but you get prompted to install.
This is the closest true match to “auto download + no auto install” in Windows policy.

Step 3 — Windows 11 Home (no Group Policy)

If you are on Windows 11 Home, you can’t enforce the Group Policy options directly. Your best approach is:

1. Keep Metered connection OFF so updates can download automatically
2. Enable restart notifications and keep Active hours wide
3. Use Pause updates during critical periods

Verification (recommended)

After applying settings, verify that Windows is downloading but not installing silently:

• Settings → Windows Update → confirm it shows “Updates available” without forcing install
• Confirm you receive a prompt/notification before a restart is required