How to disable Automatic Updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader

Learn how to stop Automatic Updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader with our step-by-step guide. Take control of your software updates today!

Adobe Acrobat Reader is a popular software used for viewing, printing, and commenting on PDF documents. It is widely used in both personal and professional settings. Like any other software, Adobe Acrobat Reader also releases regular updates to improve its functionality and security. However, some users may prefer to disable automatic updates for various reasons, such as limited internet bandwidth or the desire to have more control over the updates. In this article, we will discuss how to disable automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader on your Windows PC.

1. Use the Task Scheduler

The Task Scheduler is a useful tool that allows you to view and manage all the tasks that are automatically created during installation. This includes the Adobe Acrobat Update Task, which is responsible for automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader. To disable this task, follow these steps:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run command box.

Step 2: Type “taskschd.msc” and press Enter to open the Task Scheduler.

Step 3: In the Task Scheduler window, navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Adobe > Adobe Acrobat Update Task. Right-click on the task and select Disable.

This method will disable the task responsible for automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

2. Use the Services Manager

Another way to disable automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader is by using the Services Manager. This method involves disabling the Adobe Acrobat Update Service, which is responsible for checking and installing updates. Follow these steps to disable the service:

Step 1: Open the Run command box by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard.

Step 2: Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services Manager.

Step 3: In the Services Manager window, scroll down to find the Adobe Acrobat Update Service. Right-click on it and select Properties.

Step 4: In the Properties window, go to the General tab and click on the dropdown menu next to Startup type. Select Disabled and click on Apply.

Step 5: Click on the Stop button to stop the service if it is currently running.

Step 6: Click on OK to save the changes.

This method will disable the Adobe Acrobat Update Service, which will prevent automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

3. Use the MSConfig tool

The MSConfig tool is a troubleshooting tool that allows you to boot your computer in Safe Mode and start it in a Clean Boot State. This method involves disabling the Adobe Acrobat Update Service in Safe Mode. Follow these steps to disable automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader using MSConfig:

Step 1: Open the Run command box by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard.

Step 2: Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the MSConfig tool.

Step 3: In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.

Step 4: Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft Services to prevent any system services from being disabled.

Step 5: Scroll down to find the Adobe Acrobat Update Service and uncheck the box next to it.

Step 6: Click on Apply and then click on OK.

Step 7: If prompted, restart your system.

This method will disable the Adobe Acrobat Update Service, which will prevent automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

These methods will help you disable automatic updates in Adobe Acrobat Reader and give you more control over when you want to install updates. It is important to note that disabling automatic updates may leave your system vulnerable to security threats. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly check for updates and install them manually. However, if you still prefer to disable automatic updates, make sure to periodically check for updates and install them manually to keep your system secure and up to date.