How to Stop Browsers From Updating Automatically in 2026

Web browsers usually update themselves in the background. These updates are designed to fix bugs, improve speed, and patch security issues. In most cases, keeping automatic updates enabled is the best option.

However, some users prefer to pause updates for a while. This can be useful if a new version causes compatibility issues, removes a feature, or creates problems with certain websites or extensions.

If you want more control over updates, here are safe ways to manage them on major browsers in 2026.

Also read: Netflix Tests Vertical Video Feed and Smarter AI Features for Mobile Users

Stop Automatic Updates in Google Chrome

Why Chrome Updates on Its Own

Google Chrome uses background services that regularly check for new versions. These services can run even when Chrome is closed, then download and install updates automatically.

Method 1: Disable Chrome Update Services

1. Press Win + R on your keyboard.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the list, find these entries:

• Google Update Service (gupdate)
• Google Update Service (gupdatem)

4. Double-click the first service.
5. Click Stop.
6. Change Startup Type to Disabled.
7. Click Apply, then OK.
8. Repeat the same steps for the second service.
9. Restart your PC.

Method 2: Use System Configuration

1. Search msconfig in Windows Search.
2. Open System Configuration.
3. Go to the Services tab.
4. Locate Google update services.
5. Uncheck both services.
6. Click Apply and then OK.
7. Restart the computer.

Important Note

Turning off Chrome updates may leave your browser vulnerable to security risks. Only do this temporarily if necessary.

Stop Automatic Updates in Microsoft Edge

Why Edge Updates Automatically

Microsoft Edge also uses updater services running in the background. These services silently download and install new versions.

Method 1: Disable Edge Services

1. Press Win + R.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. Find:

• Microsoft Edge Update Service (edgeupdate)
• Microsoft Edge Update Service (edgeupdatem)

4. Open each service one by one.
5. Set Startup Type to Disabled.
6. Click Stop.
7. Save changes with OK.
8. Restart your computer.

Method 2: Use Registry Settings

Advanced users can block updates through Windows Registry.

1. Open Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to Microsoft policy settings for Edge Update.
3. Create a DWORD value named:

UpdateDefault

4. Set value:

• 0 = Disable updates
• 2 = Manual updates only

Method 3: Block Updater with Firewall

1. Open Windows Firewall.
2. Create a new outbound rule.
3. Select the Edge updater program.
4. Block its internet access.

This prevents the updater from downloading files.

Method 4: Rename Update Folder

1. Open the Edge installation folder.
2. Find the EdgeUpdate folder.
3. Rename it to something like:

EdgeUpdateOld

This can stop the updater from launching normally.

Important Note

If you are not comfortable using Registry or system folders, use the Services method instead.

Stop Automatic Updates in Firefox

Firefox offers built-in update controls, making it easier than some other browsers.

Steps

1. Open Firefox.
2. Click the menu icon in the top-right corner.
3. Choose Settings.
4. Open the General section.
5. Scroll to Firefox Updates.
6. Select:

Check for updates but let you choose to install them

7. Disable background update options if shown.
8. Restart Firefox.

This allows you to decide when updates are installed.

Stop Browser Updates on Mac

Mac systems handle updates differently depending on how the browser was installed.

Chrome and Edge on Mac

These browsers may use their own updater tools. Advanced users can manage them through Terminal commands or launch services.

Only use official commands from the browser developer, and be careful when changing system settings.

Firefox on Mac

Firefox update settings on Mac are similar to Windows.

1. Open Firefox
2. Go to Settings
3. Find Firefox Updates
4. Choose manual update checks

App Store Browser Updates

If the browser was installed from the Mac App Store:

1. Open System Settings
2. Select Software Update
3. Open Automatic Updates
4. Turn off App Updates

This stops automatic updates for App Store apps.

Should You Disable Browser Updates?

Disabling updates gives you more control, but it also has risks.

Pros

• Avoid buggy new versions
• Prevent unwanted design changes
• Keep compatibility with old extensions

Cons

• Security patches are delayed
• Performance fixes are missed
• Some websites may stop working correctly

Also read: How to Install and Use BitLocker on Windows 11 in 2026

Final Thoughts

You can stop browsers from updating automatically in 2026, but it should be done carefully. Updates exist for a reason—they protect your device and improve browsing.

If you disable updates, remember to check manually from time to time so your browser does not become outdated or unsafe.