How to Specify Target Feature Update Version in Windows 11
You can tell Windows 11 exactly which feature update version you want your PC to upgrade to. This lets you control when your computer moves to a new major Windows build.
This setting stops Windows 11 from automatically installing newer feature updates than the one you choose. This helps ensure your current software remains compatible and stable.
For instance, if your business relies on a critical application that hasn’t yet been certified for Windows 11, version 22H2, you can set that as your target to avoid unwanted upgrades.
This allows you to maintain a predictable environment and schedule your upgrades strategically after thorough testing.
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.
What Happens When You Set a Target Version?
Setting a target Windows 11 update version stops your computer from automatically looking for new feature updates, meaning it will only install important security patches.
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
You can tell Windows 11 which update version to aim for using the Local Group Policy Editor, but you’ll need admin rights to make these changes.
- Press ⊞ Win+R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
- 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
You can also set a specific Windows 11 update version by changing settings in the Registry Editor, but be careful as mistakes can cause problems.
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"
To remove the restriction, right-click and delete these three keys.
Verification via PowerShell
You can check if your settings are active by running this command in PowerShell:
Get-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate"
Enterprise Management with Intune
If you manage many computers for a business, Microsoft Intune is a great tool to control the Windows 11 update version on all of them at once.
Summary
Choosing a specific Windows 11 update version gives you control over your computer’s upgrades, whether you use Group Policy, the Registry, or Intune.
What happens if I set an invalid version number?
If you enter an invalid or non-existent version number, the Windows Update service will ignore the policy. Your computer will continue to check 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. Your computer will continue to receive critical security updates, quality patches, and driver updates. This ensures that while you stay on a specific version for compatibility, your system remains protected against the latest security threats and vulnerabilities.
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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.
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