How to temporarily block the installation of the .NET Framework 4.6.1

The .NET Framework 4.6.1 will still be available through Windows Update and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) for Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 platforms. The .NET Framework 4.6.1 will be categorized as a recommended update on these platforms.

Important We strongly recommend that you do not block the installation of the .NET Framework 4.6.1. However, you may have a business reason to temporarily block the installation. For example, you may require more time to test line-of-business applications in your environment. In such a case, you can modify the registry to temporarily block this installation. 

How to temporarily block the installation of the .NET Framework 4.6.1

Important Follow the steps in this section carefully. Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly. Before you modify it, back up the registry for restorationin case problems occur.

Note For security, stability, reliability, and servicing reasons, we recommend that you do not maintain this block for an extended time.

1. Back up the registry.
2. Start Registry Editor. To do this, click Start, type regedit in the Start Search box, and then press Enter.
3. Locate and click the following subkey:
   
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\NET Framework Setup\NDP
4. After you select this subkey, point to New on the Edit menu, and then click Key.
5. Type WU, and then press Enter.
6. Right-click WU, point to New, and then click DWORD Value.
7. Type BlockNetFramework461, and then press Enter.
8. Right-click BlockNetFramework461, and then click Modify.
9. In the Value data box, type 1, and then click OK.
10. On the File menu, click Exit to exit Registry Editor.

Note Organizations do not have to modify the registry in environments that are managed through an update management solution, such as Microsoft WSUS or System Center Configuration Manager. Organizations can use these products to fully manage the deployment of updates that are released through Windows Update or Microsoft Update. The procedure that's discussed in this article is necessary only for computers that directly connect to and receive updates from Windows Update.