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How to Control Microsoft 365 App Updates and Stay on a Specific Version
Question details
The user wants to know how to stop automatic updates for Microsoft 365 apps and remain on a specific build or version.
- Product
- Microsoft 365 Apps
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Managing software versions for stability, compatibility, or organizational policy enforcement without being forced into automatic updates.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft 365 apps automatically update by default, which may disrupt workflows, introduce unwanted changes, or break compatibility with specific add-ins.
Before changing your update settings, ensure that you have administrator permissions if you are on a company network. Keep in mind that disabling updates entirely will also stop critical security patches from being installed.
Disable Updates Directly in Microsoft 365 Apps
The quickest way to stop automatic updates for individual users with appropriate permissions.
By adjusting the account settings within any Office desktop application, you can pause or disable future automatic updates. This ensures your software remains on its current version.
Launch a Microsoft 365 desktop app such as Word or Excel on your computer.
Click on 'File' in the top left corner, then select 'Account' (or 'Office Account') from the bottom of the left-hand menu.
Click on the 'Update Options' button next to the Office Updates section, and select 'Disable Updates' from the drop-down menu.
Turn off Microsoft Product Updates in Windows Settings
Prevent Windows Update from automatically downloading and installing updates for Microsoft Office and other products.
Manage Updates via Microsoft 365 Apps Admin Center
For organizations, administrators can control update channels and deploy specific builds using deployment policies.
Switch to WPS Office for a Stable, Hassle-Free Experience
Tired of forced updates and complex administration in Microsoft 365? WPS Office offers a lightweight, highly compatible alternative with easy-to-manage installations and full support for all major Microsoft file formats.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions for a quick, lightweight installation.
- 3. Open Your Office Files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Microsoft Office files with perfect formatting compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I roll back to a previous version of Microsoft 365?
Yes, but rolling back to an earlier version typically requires administrator permissions to perform the necessary operations in the Microsoft 365 Apps admin center or by using the Office Deployment Tool.
Is it safe to permanently disable Microsoft 365 updates?
It is not recommended to permanently block updates, as doing so prevents your apps from receiving critical security patches and bug fixes. It is safer to use managed update policies to test builds rather than turning off updates forever.
Why can't I see the 'Disable Updates' option in my Office app?
If the 'Disable Updates' button is missing from the Account menu, your organization's IT administrator has likely restricted these settings using Group Policy to ensure all devices stay updated.
