Disable Windows Media Player Automatic Updates In The Registry

The Windows registry holds thousands of different settings for your computer software and hardware including programs like Windows Media Player, which are downloaded from the internet and free thanks to Microsoft.  But one of the biggest annoyances with Media Player is that it automatically updates which can create problems.  You can disable Windows Media Player automatic updates in the registry. 

Windows Media Player will check for updates on a regular basis on its own using the established Internet connection, and whenever a new version is available, it will instantly download that version which may not be appropriate for all users.  By changing an entry in registry, you can stop this from occurring.

But be warned if you use regedit and edit the registry incorrectly, you may cause your computer to completely freeze resulting in having to reinstall Windows and losing all your data.  If you are not familiar with or uncomfortable with the Registry then it is advised that you get the assistance of a qualified technician.  However, if you wish to do it yourself here are the directions For Windows Media Player 7 or later

1.    Go to your start menu then choose run.

2.    Type regedit in the box

3.    Once the registry opens go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE

4.    Next find HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft

5.    Choose the Edit menu and then click New and then key

6.    Type Windows Media Player and then Enter

7.    With your new entry Windows Media Player highlighted once again choose the edit menu but now choose modify

8.    Choose the DWORD value

9.    Type DiableAutoUpdate and then enter

10. Now you need to go back to the edit menu and then click modify

11. Type 1 then OK.

12. Exit the registry editor

Once you disable your automatic update for Windows Media Player, you will need to use the Check for player upgrade option under the help menu in the program.  It gives you much better control over when those updates will occur.

The great thing about the registry is that once you understand how it works and what it is capable of you will discover that there are many software programs that you can customize if you wish.

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