Guide | How To Windows 8: How to Prevent Upgrade to Windows 8.1

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Ink

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Jan 8, 2011
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To be clear: I do not recommend this unless; you are an advanced user and do not wish to upgrade, or using Windows 8 in a virtual environment and/or for testing purposes.

There are 2 Windows Update updates that need to be Hidden or Uninstalled, and will prevent the Windows 8.1 automatic upgrade.

KB2871389 is an pre-requisite update - https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2871389
"Update is available that prepares Windows 8 and Windows RT-based computers for the update to Windows 8.1 and Windows 8.1 RT"

KB3008273 is an update that automates the upgrade - https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3008273
"An update to enable an automatic update from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1"

Important Notes:
  • Windows Update set to Automatic will install these updates for you. It's up to you to Hide / Uninstall the updates.
  • Changing your Windows Update settings to "Check for updates but let me choose...
    • upload_2015-9-17_13-27-44.png
  • Troubleshooting Windows Update will restore settings to Automatic.
  • Troubleshooting Windows Update will Restore Hidden Updates.
  • If KB2871389 is already hidden, KB3008273 may not appear in Windows Update.
  • If KB2871389 is installed, KB3008273 may have already started. Both KB's can be uninstalled.
(SOURCE) HOWTOGEEK.COM - How to Stop Automatic Forced Upgrade from Windows 8 to Windows 8.1? - AskVG

As recommended to stay updated, upgrade to Windows 8.1. You can refer to the Windows Lifecycle fact sheet.
 

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