Effectively Hiding Windows Updates with PowerShell
Key Notes
- PowerShell allows selective hiding of Windows updates.
- Updates can be hidden using titles or KB numbers.
- Regular monitoring of updates via PowerShell is advised.
Mastering Update Management: How to Effectively Hide Updates Using PowerShell in Windows
Managing updates on Windows has evolved, making it challenging to hide unwanted updates. This article provides a comprehensive guide on using PowerShell to handle updates efficiently in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
How to Access PowerShell in Windows
Step 1: Launch PowerShell via Windows Terminal
Press Win + X and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)” to access PowerShell directly. This opens the terminal with PowerShell as the default shell.
Step 2: Check PowerShell Installation
Ensure your version of Windows has PowerShell. If necessary, update through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Step 3: Admin Access via PowerShell
To run commands with admin privileges, right-click the Start menu and choose Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Remove Restrictions on Access
Step 4: Adjust Execution Policy
Input the following command to permit script execution: Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted
. Press Enter and confirm with A to allow unrestricted access for your session.
Installing the Windows Update Tool
Step 5: Install PSWindowsUpdate Module
Enter Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate
in PowerShell. Confirm installation of necessary components when prompted.
Concealing Updates by Title
Step 6: Retrieve Update List
To find the update’s title, use the command: Get-WindowsUpdate
. Identify the update you wish to hide.
Step 7: Hide Selected Updates
Enter the command Hide-WindowsUpdate -Title "UpdateName*"
, replacing UpdateName*
with the recognized title. Confirm with A to proceed with hiding.
Hiding Updates by KB Number
Step 8: Use KB Number for Updates
To hide an update via its KB number, employ the command Hide-WindowsUpdate -KBArticleID "KBNumber"
. Confirm the action as usual.
Restoring Hidden Updates
Step 9: View Hidden Updates
Use Get-HiddenWindowsUpdate
to list all hidden updates. To unhide, run Unhide-WindowsUpdate -Title "UpdateTitle"
or by KB number.
Capabilities and Limitations of PowerShell for Updates
While PowerShell provides control over visible updates, note that you cannot prevent all updates. Regularly check for new releases to maintain system integrity.
Common Questions
- What alternatives are there to manage unwanted Windows updates?
- Is hiding updates a secure practice?
- What if I lack admin privileges?
Summary
In this guide, we’ve outlined using PowerShell to hide unwanted Windows updates, detailing steps from accessing PowerShell to executing specific commands for updates handling. Regular usage can aid in effective system management.
Conclusion
Mastering PowerShell commands allows you to take control of Windows updates effectively. By selectively hiding updates, you can maintain a smooth experience on your Windows device. Remember to check back frequently for new updates and tweaks as needed.
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