Stay in Charge: How to Stop Automatic Google Chrome Updates on Your Mac and the Latest Windows

Are you fed up with Google Chrome’s updates occurring at the most inconvenient times? While these updates are often crucial for security and functionality, having control over when they occur can be critical for some users. This guide will show you how you can take the reins and prevent automatic updates of Google Chrome on both Mac and the latest Windows operating systems.

Disable Chrome’s Autoupdate on the Latest Windows

Windows has upgraded since Windows 10, but the process to disable automatic updates in Chrome remains similar. If you’re running Windows 11 or any other recent version, just follow these steps to stay in control of your update schedule:

1. Access the Run dialog by pressing the Windows key + R.
2. Enter ‘services.msc’ and hit Enter to bring up the Services console.
3. Scroll down to find the Google Update Service (gupdate) and Google Update Service (gupdatem).
4. Right-click each service, select ‘Properties’, and set the Startup type to ‘Disabled’.
5. Confirm your changes, close the Services console, and restart your computer.

There’s also an alternative method utilizing the System Configuration window:

1. Open Run, type ‘msconfig’, and press Enter.
2. On the Services tab, look for and uncheck Google Update Service options.
3. Apply your changes and reboot your system.

Turn Off Chrome Autoupdate Feature on Mac

Owners of Mac computers including the latest macOS can stop the Chrome updation process through the following:

1. Navigate to the Applications folder, right-click Google Chrome, and select ‘Show Package Contents’.
2. In the Contents folder, locate and open the Info.plist file. Search for the ‘KSUpdateURL’ key and modify its URL to another arbitrary link.
3. Save the changes, being aware that some system permissions might request confirmation to make the edit.

You can also prevent updates by renaming the update folder:

1. Using Finder, go to the ‘Library’ then ‘Google’ and locate the ‘GoogleSoftwareUpdate’ folder.
2. Change the folder’s name, which will prevent Chrome from locating the update service.

Bear in mind, manually initiating an update for Chrome may recreate this folder, consequently reintroducing automatic updates.

Conclusion

A few steps are all it takes to keep your Google Chrome browser from updating automatically on your Mac or your modern Windows system, offering you the flexibility to update on your terms. If you’ve found this walkthrough beneficial, sharing with friends or colleagues can extend the utility. Should any queries arise or if support is needed, our communication channels are always open.

Expert Queries

Is there a definitive way to disable Google Chrome’s auto-update feature forever?

A permanent disablement of Chrome’s auto-update mechanism isn’t available, as workaround tactics are usually temporary and could be overridden by Google in future browser versions. Nevertheless, adopting methods such as the ones detailed above can give users temporary relief from auto-updates.

What are the benefits of updating my Google Chrome browser?

Regular updates to your Google Chrome browser safeguard against security threats by patching vulnerabilities and introduce enhancements that can streamline your browsing experience. Staying updated offers the best protection and user experience Google Chrome can provide.