Microsoft is finally allowing users to skip updates during the Windows 11 setup process, marking a notable shift in how the company handles the initial installation experience. The change applies to the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), the series of screens users encounter when installing or reinstalling Windows 11 from scratch. Previously, users were often required to wait for updates to download and install before reaching the desktop, a process that could add significant time to setup, particularly on slower internet connections.
The option to bypass these updates appears as an “Update Later” button on the relevant setup screen, giving users immediate access to the desktop. This adjustment aligns with Microsoft’s stated goal of reducing unnecessary prompts during installation to create a “more relaxed experience.” The change comes after a September 2025 update that made post-installation security updates mandatory and unskippable, a move that drew criticism for extending setup time without user consent.
According to testing by Windows Latest, the ability to skip updates during OOBE is now being rolled out by Microsoft, though the company has not specified a timeline for when all users will witness the change. The rollout appears to be gradual, meaning some users may encounter the option sooner than others depending on their update channel and geographic region.
Whereas skipping updates can save time during initial setup, Microsoft and security experts continue to emphasize the importance of installing updates promptly for system protection. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware or unauthorized access attempts. Delaying these updates leaves the system exposed until they are applied, particularly if the device is connected to the internet or used for sensitive tasks.
The change does not affect the mandatory nature of security updates after installation; users are still expected to install them through Windows Update once they reach the desktop. Microsoft maintains that keeping the operating system up to date remains critical for defense against evolving threats, including ransomware and zero-day exploits.
For users concerned about long setup times, the update-later option provides a practical workaround without permanently disabling update functionality. It reflects a broader trend in operating design toward giving users more control over initial configuration while maintaining security safeguards in the background.
As of April 2026, Microsoft has not announced any changes to its update policies for Windows 10 or earlier versions of Windows. The adjustment appears specific to Windows 11 installations initiated through clean install media or recovery environments.
The development was first reported by Windows Latest and subsequently covered by PCWorld, both of which confirmed the presence of the “Update Later” option in test installations. No official statement from Microsoft detailing the rollout scope or duration has been published as of this writing.
Users who wish to seize advantage of the faster setup should ensure they back up important data before reinstalling Windows 11 and plan to run Windows Update as soon as possible after reaching the desktop to maintain system security.
For ongoing updates on Windows 11 features and changes, users can monitor the official Microsoft Windows blog or trusted technology news outlets that provide verified coverage of operating system developments.
What are your thoughts on Microsoft’s decision to let users skip updates during Windows 11 setup? Share your experience in the comments below, and consider sharing this article with others who frequently reinstall or set up Windows devices.