Not long ago, I made a post on how to fix a game-crashing issue caused by a Windows update. The game would crash to the desktop without any error message, and the culprit was a Windows update. Uninstalling the update immediately resolved the issue. However, the problem was that Windows kept redownloading and reinstalling the update automatically.
The challenge was to stop Windows from downloading and installing just that one specific update while allowing all other updates to proceed as usual. If you’re facing a similar issue, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to block a particular Windows update.
Step 1: Ensure the Update is in the Download Queue
Before you can block an update, it must be in the download or installation queue—not already installed. If it’s installed, you’ll need to uninstall it first.
Step 2: Adjust Windows Update Settings
Go to Windows Update Advanced Settings
Disable the option to download updates on a metered connection.
Disable the option to download updates as soon as they become available.
Modify Your Network Connection
Open your network settings.
Select the internet connection you use.
Enable the option to set it as a metered connection.
This will prevent the update from being downloaded temporarily, giving us time to block it properly.
Step 3: Use the Official Microsoft Utility
Microsoft provides a tool to block specific updates, known as the Windows Update Show or Hide Tool (wushowhide.diagcab). However, for some reason, Microsoft has removed the official download link from their website.
To get the tool, follow these steps:
Search online for wushowhide.diagcab download and look for reputable sources such as TenForums.
Download the ZIP archive containing the tool.
Extract the file wushowhide.diagcab and place it on your drive.
Run the tool with administrative privileges.
The utility will scan for available updates. Select the update you want to block (e.g., an old Intel video driver that keeps reinstalling).
Tick the box to hide the update and apply the changes.
Step 4: Verify That the Update is Blocked
After using the tool, restart Windows Update and check if the update still appears. If done correctly, Windows Update should no longer detect or attempt to install the blocked update.
Step 5: Restore Normal Update Settings
Once the problematic update is blocked:
Remove the metered connection setting.
Re-enable the standard update settings to continue receiving all other necessary updates.
Additional Tip for Windows Insiders
If you’re part of the Windows Insider Program, you may want to use the Windows Update Show or Hide Tool to switch to a different update channel. Insider builds are often unstable and may introduce bugs, so disabling these builds can help maintain system stability.
Conclusion
Blocking a specific Windows update while allowing others to install is possible using the wushowhide.diagcab utility. This method is particularly useful for avoiding outdated drivers or bugged updates that cause system instability. By following these steps, you can ensure your system remains up to date without unwanted issues.