Windows 11 version 26H2 has officially started rolling out to users, though installation is not mandatory. Microsoft has introduced this update to improve the operating system, but some users may prefer to wait due to concerns about compatibility issues or bugs that might appear in the early stages of the release. Fortunately, there are several ways to delay or even block the update without missing out on important security updates. One straightforward method to delay the update is through the Windows Update settings. On Windows 11 Home, users can disable the option "Receive updates as soon as they are available" in the Settings > Windows Update menu. This tells Microsoft that the computer is not ready for the latest feature updates, including the 26H2 release. Additionally, users can pause updates for up to 35 days, and this pause can be renewed multiple times, giving them flexibility in when they choose to install the update. For a more permanent solution, advanced users can use the Windows Registry to block the update. This method is not officially supported on Windows 11 Home but is available on Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. By adjusting specific Registry keys—such as ProductVersion, TargetReleaseVersion, and TargetReleaseVersionInfo—users can set their system to stay on an older version, like 25H2. Before making any changes, it is crucial to back up the Registry and create a system restore point to prevent potential issues. Users with Windows 11 Pro can also use the Local Group Policy Editor to achieve similar results. By enabling the policy "Select the target update version" under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update, users can specify the desired version of Windows without manually editing the Registry. This method is also available on Enterprise and Education editions, where it is often managed by IT administrators in larger organizations. It is worth noting that support for Windows 11 24H2 will end on October 13, 2026, after which security updates will no longer be available for that version. For users who find managing updates with each new release cumbersome, exploring Linux distributions that offer a user experience similar to Windows may be a practical alternative.