Why Does Windows 10 Keep Installing the Annoying KB5001716 Update Without Permission?

Is Microsoft's Persistent KB5001716 Update Secretly Forcing Your Windows 11 Upgrade?

Microsoft recently pushed out another round of the KB5001716 update to Windows 10 computers. This update has been making waves because it keeps coming back, and many users are frustrated about what it actually does.

I've been tracking this update closely, and I want to share what's really happening with your Windows 10 system when this update gets installed.

What Is KB5001716 Really Doing to Your Computer?

The KB5001716 update refreshes Windows Update service components on your machine. Microsoft describes it as including "new user interface functionality for Windows Update," but there's more to the story.

This update specifically targets Windows 10 systems running versions 21H2 and 22H2. When installed, it gives Windows permission to automatically download and install feature updates if your current Windows version is approaching end of support.

Here's what happens after installation:

• Windows may attempt to download feature updates automatically
• Your system might start pushing Windows 11 upgrades more aggressively
• You'll see periodic notifications about support lifecycle issues
• Warnings about hardware compatibility requirements may appear

Why Users Are Concerned About This Update

Many Windows 10 users feel blindsided by KB5001716 because it installs quietly without clear explanation of its purpose. One user reported that the update "was downloaded and installed on my computer in the blink of an eye".

The main concern centers around Microsoft's apparent attempt to push Windows 11 upgrades through this update. Users worry that it gives Microsoft "the right to send/bother members with Win10 messages about Win11 and try to force them to install Win11".

The Update's Persistent Nature

What makes KB5001716 particularly notable is its recurring installation pattern. Reports indicate this update has been installed multiple times throughout 2024 and continues appearing in 2025. German blog readers reported seeing the update deploy again on June 27, 2025, even after previous installations.

This persistence suggests Microsoft is actively refreshing the update components to maintain pressure on Windows 10 users to upgrade.

Technical Impact on Your System

When KB5001716 installs, it modifies your Windows Update service components to:

• Enable automatic feature update detection
• Activate end-of-support notifications
• Prepare your system for potential Windows 11 compatibility checks
• Modify update delivery mechanisms

The update respects certain user modes like full screen, game mode, and focus assist, so notifications won't interrupt critical activities.

Current Availability and Affected Systems

KB5001716 currently targets these Windows versions:

• Windows 10 version 22H2 (all editions)
• Windows 10 version 21H2 (Enterprise only)
• Windows 11 version 21H2

Microsoft has been gradually expanding the update's reach across different Windows 10 builds since its initial deployment.

What This Means for Windows 10 Users

With Windows 10 support ending October 14, 2025, Microsoft is using KB5001716 as a transition tool. The update essentially prepares your system for the eventual push toward Windows 11 or newer Windows 10 builds.

If you're planning to stick with Windows 10 beyond its support deadline, you should be aware that this update will likely continue generating upgrade prompts and compatibility warnings.

Managing the Update

While you can hide or delay KB5001716 using Windows Update settings, Microsoft may continue redeploying updated versions. Some users have successfully used third-party tools like Windows Automatic Update Manager to control its installation.

The key is understanding that this update represents Microsoft's strategy to migrate Windows 10 users to supported platforms before the October 2025 deadline.