Stop Windows Updates Destroying Your Laptop

Summary

This video explains how to prevent Windows updates, particularly BIOS and firmware updates, from potentially bricking your laptop. It highlights the risks associated with automatic BIOS updates pushed by Windows, which can cause system failure if interrupted. The video offers solutions for users, such as using the Group Policy Editor to block driver updates, disabling UEFI firmware updates in BIOS settings, and managing updates through device manager. It also advises disabling specific update features in laptop applications like MyAsus to ensure safety during updates.

Takeaways

• 😀 Firmware updates through Windows Update can potentially brick your laptop if interrupted (e.g., power failure during BIOS update).
• 😀 BIOS updates are often pushed automatically through Windows Update, causing widespread issues for many laptop users.
• 😀 Disabling firmware and BIOS updates can prevent system failures, and there are multiple methods to achieve this.
• 😀 Windows Pro users can block firmware updates by using the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc).
• 😀 In the Group Policy Editor, enabling the policy 'Do not include drivers with Windows Updates' will stop BIOS and firmware updates.
• 😀 Disabling BIOS updates in the BIOS settings itself is another effective method for blocking firmware updates.
• 😀 Many manufacturers offer software (like MyAsus, Lenovo Vantage) that also pushes BIOS updates automatically; this can be disabled within those applications.
• 😀 Device Manager can also be used to disable firmware updates by right-clicking the firmware section and selecting 'Disable'.
• 😀 The risk of bricking your laptop is particularly high if the system shuts down during a BIOS update, which could be caused by low battery or other interruptions.
• 😀 Although disabling BIOS updates is advisable, it’s important to manually update the BIOS when necessary for system stability and security.
• 😀 Windows updates will still push regular updates (such as security updates) even if BIOS and firmware updates are disabled, keeping the system safe.

Q & A

What is the main issue being discussed in the video?

The video addresses the problem of BIOS and firmware updates being pushed through Windows Update, which can cause laptops to become bricked if the update process is interrupted.

How can Windows Pro users stop BIOS and firmware updates from being installed automatically?

Windows Pro users can stop BIOS and firmware updates by using the Group Policy Editor. They need to enable the policy 'Do not include drivers with Windows updates' under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update.

What is the risk associated with BIOS and firmware updates from Windows Update?

The main risk is that if the laptop shuts down during the BIOS or firmware update, it can cause the laptop to become bricked, requiring repairs to the BIOS.

What is the role of the UEFI Capsule Firmware update option in the BIOS?

Disabling the UEFI Capsule Firmware update option in the BIOS prevents BIOS updates from being applied through Windows Update or other services, such as those offered by the manufacturer.

How can users disable firmware updates in Device Manager?

Users can disable firmware updates by opening Device Manager, locating the firmware section under System Devices, and disabling entries related to UEFI or BIOS updates, such as 'Asus UEFI' or similar.

Can users still receive other updates if they disable BIOS and firmware updates?

Yes, users will still receive regular security updates and other system updates, but BIOS and firmware updates will be blocked from automatic installation.

What should users do if their laptop uses a manufacturer-specific software for updates?

Users can open the manufacturer's software (e.g., My Asus, Lenovo Vantage) and disable automatic BIOS or firmware updates by unchecking the relevant option in the software settings.

What is the main benefit of disabling BIOS updates through the described methods?

The main benefit is that it prevents the risk of bricking the laptop due to a failed BIOS update, especially if the laptop shuts down unexpectedly during the update process.

Are BIOS updates important for laptop performance and security?

Yes, BIOS updates are important for maintaining system stability, compatibility with hardware, and addressing security vulnerabilities. However, they need to be installed carefully to avoid the risk of system failure.

What are the potential consequences if a laptop shuts down during a BIOS update?

If a laptop shuts down during a BIOS update, it can lead to the laptop becoming bricked, meaning it is rendered inoperable and may require professional repair to restore functionality.