How to Specify Target Feature Update Version in Windows 11
Windows 11 lets you pick a specific feature update version your PC should aim for when upgrading.
This setting controls when your computer installs a new main Windows release, like version 22H2.
It stops Windows 11 from automatically installing updates past the version you select. This is useful if a business needs to avoid upgrades until new software versions are ready, like waiting for an app to work with a newer Windows release.
Setting a target version helps keep your computer environment stable and predictable.
Your PC will only install security updates, not major new feature updates, once you set this target.
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 is a tool for managing many Windows settings, allowing you to tell Windows 11 which feature update version it should target. 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
Alternatively, you can set a specific Windows 11 update version by modifying settings in the Registry Editor. 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
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
Selecting a specific Windows 11 update version puts you in control of your computer’s upgrades, whether you opt for 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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