How to Specify Target Feature Update Version in Windows 11
Target feature update version settings in Windows 11 lock your computer to a specific main release, like version 22H2, so your PC skips unwanted major upgrades. This feature stops Windows from automatically installing newer versions while still letting your machine download normal security patches.
Locking your Windows 11 version helps keep your apps working and stops sudden system changes. You can set this limit through the Group Policy Editor or the Registry at 🗝️HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\
Control your Windows 11 version by opening Local Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) and navigating to Windows Update settings. Double-click “Select the target Feature Update version,” enable it, and enter “Windows 11” and your desired version number.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Best For | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Group Policy | Single PC | Easy |
| Registry | Advanced Users | Medium |
| Intune/MDM | Businesses | Professional |
How to Specify Target Feature Update Version in Local Group Policy Editor
The Local Group Policy Editor (a built-in administrative tool for configuring system policies) lets administrators lock Windows 11 to a specific feature update version. Administrator rights are required to make changes. To begin, press Win+R, then type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
1. Press Win+R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to: Computer Configuration Administrative Templates Windows Components Windows Update Manage updates offered from Windows Update .
3. Double-click Select the target Feature Update version.
4. Select Enabled. In the options, type Windows 11 for the product and your desired version (e.g., 26H1) in the target box.
5. Click OK.
To undo this, select Not Configured in the same menu.
Specify Target Feature Update Version using Registry
Modifying settings in the Registry Editor (Windows' central database for system configurations) offers another way to lock down your update version. This is a powerful tool for customizing Windows, but proceed with caution as errors can cause issues. To open Registry Editor, type regedit in the search bar.
1. Open Registry Editor by typing regedit in the search bar.
2. Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate.
3. Create or modify these values:
"ProductVersion"="Windows 11"
"TargetReleaseVersion"=dword:00000001
"TargetReleaseVersionInfo"="26H1"
Verification via PowerShell
Verification of active settings happens by running this command in PowerShell:
Get-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate"
Enterprise Management with Intune
Administrators managing multiple computers for a business can use Microsoft Intune to control the Windows 11 update version across all machines at once.
Summary
Selecting a specific Windows 11 update version puts upgrade control in your hands, whether utilizing Group Policy, the Registry, or Intune.
What happens if I set an invalid version number?
Entering an invalid or non-existent version number causes the Windows Update service to ignore the policy. The computer continues checking for the latest available updates as if no restriction was set. Always verify the correct version string on the official Microsoft release health website.
Does this policy affect security updates?
No, this policy only restricts major feature updates. Critical security updates, quality patches, and driver updates continue installing normally. This ensures that while a specific version stays active for compatibility, systems remain protected against emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!