How to Enable or Disable Safeguard Holds in Windows 11
Safeguard holds in Windows 11 stop automatic feature updates when problems are found.
Feature updates are major new versions of Windows, released about twice a year. Safeguard holds act like a safety net, preventing your PC from getting an update if Microsoft knows it could cause trouble.
Microsoft removes these holds once a fix is ready and tested. This helps ensure you have a good experience when Windows gets a big update.
If a safeguard hold is active, Windows Update might show “coming soon” instead of a download button for a feature update. These holds pause updates until issues are fixed for your specific device.
To disable safeguard holds, open the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to Computer Configuration Administrative Templates Windows Components Windows Update Manage updates offered from Windows, and enable the “Disable safeguards for Feature Updates” policy. To re-enable them, set this policy to “Not Configured.
References:
KB5006965: How to check information about safeguard holds affecting your device – Microsoft Support
Windows Update for Business reports overview – Windows Update for Business reports
Option One
Enable or Disable Safeguards for Feature Updates in Local Group Policy Editor
You can control safeguard holds for Windows 11 feature updates using the Local Group Policy Editor, which helps manage when major updates are offered to your PC.
- Open the Local Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc).
- Navigate to the policy location below in the left pane of the Local Group Policy Editor.📝Good to KnowComputer Configuration>Administrative Templates>Windows Components>Windows Update>Manage updates offered from Windows Updates
- In the right pane of "Manage updates offered from Windows Updates" in the Local Group Policy Editor, double click on the "Disable safeguards for Feature Updates" policy to edit it.
To Enable Safeguards for Feature Updates
This setting is enabled by default.
- Select (dot) "Not Configured", click on "OK".
To Disable Safeguards for Feature Updates
- Select (dot) "Enabled", click on "OK"
- You can now close the Local Group Policy Editor if you like.
Option Two
Enable or Disable Safeguards for Feature Updates using Registry
⚠️ Admin Required: Open Windows Terminal with administrator privileges and run the commands below.
To Enable Safeguards for Feature Updates
This setting is enabled by default.
reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate" /v DisableWUfBSafeguards /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
To Disable Safeguards for Feature Updates
reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate" /v DisableWUfBSafeguards /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
Summary
Safeguard holds in Windows 11 are a safety feature from Microsoft that stops problematic updates from installing. While you can disable safeguard holds using tools like the Local Group Policy Editor, Microsoft warns this is risky and could cause update problems.
You can disable safeguard holds using either the Local Group Policy Editor (in Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education) or Windows Terminal with registry commands. However, Microsoft warns that disabling holds is risky and can cause update failures and performance problems. Only do this if you are testing in an IT environment. After each new Windows version installs, safeguards automatically turn back on to keep your device protected.
Why are people leaving 🪟 Windows 11?
Users may leave Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements, such as the need for TPM 2.0, or dissatisfaction with the redesigned interface and taskbar limitations. Others cite concerns over increased telemetry, mandatory Microsoft account integration, or performance issues on older hardware that previously ran Windows 10 without any significant problems.
How do I disable Safeguard?
You can turn off safeguard holds for Windows 11 feature updates by using the Group Policy Editor.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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