How to Turn Off Auto Updates on Steam: A Complete Guide

Steam is a popular platform for PC gaming, but its automatic updates can sometimes be inconvenient. Whether you’re dealing with limited bandwidth, data caps, or just prefer to control when updates occur, this guide will help you manage Steam’s auto-update settings effectively.

Why Disable Auto Updates on Steam?

Before diving into the methods, it’s essential to understand why you might want to disable auto updates:

• Bandwidth Management: Automatic updates can consume significant data, which is problematic for users with limited internet plans.
• System Performance: Updates running in the background can slow down your system, affecting gaming performance.
• Mod Compatibility: Updates may break mods or custom configurations, requiring adjustments or reinstallation.
• Storage Concerns: Frequent updates can fill up storage space, especially with large game files.

Method 1: Set Games to Update Only Upon Launch

Steam allows you to configure individual games to update only when you launch them. This method is straightforward and effective.

Steps:

1. Open the Steam client.
2. Navigate to your Library.
3. Right-click on the game you want to modify and select Properties.
4. Click on the Updates tab.
5. Under Automatic Updates, choose Only update this game when I launch it.

Repeat these steps for each game you wish to control.

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Method 2: Restrict Auto-Updates to Specific Time Frames in Steam

If you prefer updates to occur during off-peak hours, you can schedule them within Steam’s settings.

Steps:

1. Open the Steam client.
2. Click on Steam in the top-left corner and select Settings.
3. Go to the Downloads tab.
4. Under Download Restrictions, check Only auto-update games between.
5. Set your preferred time range (e.g., 2 AM to 5 AM).
6. Click OK to save changes.

This method ensures updates occur only during specified hours, minimizing disruptions.

Method 3: Limit Download Bandwidth For Steam

Controlling the bandwidth Steam uses for updates can prevent it from hogging your internet connection.

Steps:

1. Open the Steam client.
2. Navigate to Settings > Downloads.
3. Under Download Restrictions, check Limit bandwidth to.
4. Select a suitable speed limit from the dropdown menu.
5. Click OK to apply the changes.

This approach is beneficial for users with limited internet speeds or shared connections.

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Related: How to Make a Water Elevator in Minecraft

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Method 4: Prevent Steam from Launching at Startup

Disabling Steam’s auto-start feature can prevent it from initiating updates as soon as your computer boots up.

Steps:

1. Open the Steam client.
2. Click on Steam > Settings.
3. Go to the Interface tab.
4. Uncheck Run Steam when my computer starts.
5. Click OK to save changes.

Alternatively, you can manage startup applications through your system settings:

• Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, right-click on Steam, and select Disable.
• macOS: Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items, select Steam, and click the minus (-) button to remove it.

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Method 5: Modify Appmanifest Files (Advanced)

For advanced users, editing Steam’s appmanifest files can prevent specific games from updating.

Warning: This method involves modifying system files. Proceed with caution and back up files before making changes.

Steps:

1. Navigate to your Steam installation directory (e.g., C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps).
2. Locate the appmanifest_*.acf file corresponding to the game you want to modify.
3. Open the file with a text editor like Notepad++.
4. Find the line "AutoUpdateBehavior" "0" and change the value to "1".
5. Save the file and set it to Read-only by right-clicking the file, selecting Properties, and checking Read-only under Attributes.

This method prevents Steam from updating the specified game automatically.

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Method 6: Use Third-Party Tools

Some developers have created scripts to automate the process of disabling auto-updates for all games. One such tool is the Steam-Auto-Update-Disabler.

Features:

• Disables auto-updates for all games in your Steam library.
• Creates backups of modified files.
• Easy to use with drag-and-drop functionality.

Note: Use third-party tools at your own risk. Ensure you understand how the tool works and back up your data before proceeding.

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Potential Drawbacks

While disabling auto-updates offers more control, be aware of potential downsides:

• Security Risks: Updates often include security patches. Delaying updates may expose you to vulnerabilities.
• Multiplayer Compatibility: Some online games require all players to have the latest version. Disabling updates may prevent you from joining multiplayer sessions.
• Missing Features: You might miss out on new content, bug fixes, and improvements.

Always weigh the pros and cons before deciding to disable auto-updates.

Managing Steam’s auto-update settings can enhance your gaming experience by giving you control over when and how updates occur. Whether you choose to adjust settings within Steam, modify system files, or use third-party tools, ensure you understand the implications of each method. Regularly check for updates to keep your games secure and enjoy the latest features.