Некоторые пользователи могут заметить процесс waasmedic.exe в диспетчере задач Windows 10 или Windows 11, причем чаще всего обращают внимание на него по причине того, что указанный процесс вызывает высокую нагрузку на диск.
В этой инструкции о том, что такое WaasMedic.exe и что делать, если вы обнаружили высокую нагрузку со стороны этого процесса на диск или, реже, процессор.
Служба Medic центра обновления Windows
WaasMedic.exe — это процесс службы Medic центра обновлений Windows или, в англоязычной версии системы — Windows Update Medic Service. Служба присутствует в Windows 10 и Windows 11. Как можно понять из названия, сам процесс является системным, а не сторонней программой.
Задачи службы Medic центра обновлений:
- Основная задача (согласно официальной информации) — обеспечить простой и не отвлекающий пользователя процесс обновлений.
- Есть и дополнительная, очевидная из названия: включать отключенные системные компоненты, имеющие отношение к установке обновлений.
Почему waasmedic.exe грузит диск
Среди причин, по которым процесс может вызывать нагрузку на диск при работе:
- Штатная работа центра обновлений Windows. Если в настоящий момент происходит загрузка обновлений, их подготовка или установка (можно проверить в Параметры — Обновление и безопасность в Windows 10 или Параметры — Центр обновления Windows в Windows 11), это может вызвать временную повышенную нагрузку со стороны waasmedic.exe, при этом что-либо предпринимать не следует: по завершении установки обновлений всё должно вернуться к норме.
- Отключенные вами вручную или отключенные с помощью сторонних инструментов обновления Windows 10 или Windows 11 и попытки службы Medic исправить ситуацию.
- Конфликты службы с каким-либо сторонним ПО на вашем компьютере, например, антивирусом (здесь можно попробовать отключить недавно установленные программы, которые могут вмешиваться в работу системы).
- Системные сбои, повреждения системных файлов.
В случае, если поведение процесса не похоже на штатную работу службы или вы отключали обновления системы, есть следующие варианты действий:
- Попробовать использовать точки восстановления системы на дату, когда проблема не проявляла себя.
- Отключить службу Medic центра обновления Windows. Нажимаем Win+R, вводим services.msc и нажимаем Enter, затем находим «Служба Medic центра обновления Windows» и дважды нажимаем по службе. В «Тип запуска» устанавливаем «Отключена», нажимаем кнопку «Остановить» (если активна) и применяем настройки. Также можно задать значение параметра Start равным 4 в разделе реестра
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc
- Выполнить проверку целостности системных файлов Windows.
- Временно отключить обновления Windows 10.
Учитывайте, что при применении 2-го способа не исключено, что в дальнейшем служба будет включена автоматически системой. Одно из решений — запретить доступ «СИСТЕМА» к указанному в способе разделу реестра и значениям в нём, но и это может не сработать.
Every new release of Windows Update focuses on improving the operating system, security improvements, or simple quality-of-life enhancements. And windows update medic service supervises the update components.
The Windows updates are automatic, and there is no dedicated option to just simply shut it off. But since it consumes a lot of resources in the background, it’ll be helpful to disable it if you have limited resources. There are a few ways you can turn off windows update medic service. You can learn about them below.
What is Windows Update Medic Service?
The windows update medic service is a service that checks and repairs windows update components. This service also shows up as WaaSMedicSVC.exe
in the service menu. It is usually recognized as a partner software to the windows update.
This service is scheduled to automatically run at a fixed time interval to check the windows update system for errors. It enables windows updates even when you have windows updates disabled.
This is an important Microsoft service that is responsible for protecting the windows update integrity and preventing errors with the update component. Disabling it may cause data corruption along with missing important features and security updates.
How to Enable/disable Windows Update Medic Service?
The WaaSMedicSVC service is listed in the services list and enabled by default. You may not be able to disable it like any other service easily.
However, Windows does not give access to disabling this service even with elevated administrator privileges. While disabling it, you will get ‘access denied’ dialog box.
Even if windows does not provide permission, we have other ways to disable this service.
Using the Registry Editor
We suggest you backup your registry settings before proceeding any further. You can disable the update medic service from the registry editor on windows. The registry editor is an integral program that allows editing low-level settings of your operating system.
You can follow these steps to disable the Windows update medic service:
- Press Windows key + R, type
regedit
and press Enter. - Input your administrator password if you have any and press Ok.
- Go to this root in the registry editor:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE>SYSTEM>CurrentControlSet>Services>WaaSMedicSvc
- Right-click on Start and select Modify.
- Change the value data from 3 to 4. If you’d like to re-enable it later, you can repeat these steps and change the value back to 3.
The value 4 denotes that the service is disabled at the start. However, since it is an important part of the OS itself, the system automatically turns it back on after a certain period. You can keep these settings up if you want to manually download and install updates at your own leisure.
You can also permanently disable it. But this may put your computer at risk of not getting important updates.
- Open the registry editor and go to the following root:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE>SYSTEM>CurrentControlSet>Services>WaaSMedicSvc
- Then right-click on the WaaSMedicSvc and click on Permissions.
- A window will pop up with a box labeled “Group or user names” list. Click on “SYSTEM” from the list.
- Under permissions for SYSTEM, tick on the deny box for “Full Control.”
- Press ok to apply the settings.
How to Disable Windows Update?
There is no direct way to disable Windows updates on your computer. But you can select the ‘Pause updates for 7 days’ option to pause the update for that period of time. However, there’s another simple workaround to disable the windows update. You can temporarily disable the windows update settings through a simple workaround.
- Open settings by pressing Win + I keys and go to Settings and Internet.
- Click on properties under your Wi-Fi.
- Turn on the ‘Set as metered connection.’ This will turn your current network into a metered connection which means that your data usage is metered, and you will have more control over how it’s used.
- Press WIN + I and go to Update and Settings.
- Click on Advanced options.
- Turn off the slider under ‘Download updates over metered connections (extra charges may apply).’
This will limit the updates your computer downloads in the background and reduces background resource usage. It will only download the absolute necessary updates and ask you to manually download any other low-priority updates.
Should I Disable Windows Update Medic Service?
This entirely depends on how well you can navigate through your computer. Windows update is an important part of the operating system, and Microsoft advises against disabling it in any way. This can also be why there is no option to stop windows update.
Microsoft rolls out important security updates to tackle the latest threats and bug fixes. Since you’ll be missing out on important updates, you should only consider disabling the windows update and the update medic service based on your needs.
Windows Update Medic Service: A Comprehensive Overview
Windows operating systems are known for their regular updates, essential for system security, performance enhancements, and new features. However, the update process can occasionally encounter issues, leading to frustrating user experiences. To address these challenges, Microsoft introduced the Windows Update Medic Service (WUMS) in Windows 10. This service plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Windows Update mechanism operates smoothly, thus enhancing user experience. In this article, we’ll explore the Windows Update Medic Service in detail, covering its purpose, functionality, troubleshooting, and best practices.
What is Windows Update Medic Service?
The Windows Update Medic Service, often abbreviated as WUMS, is a background service introduced by Microsoft in the Windows 10 operating system. It is designed to maintain the update functionality of Windows, especially when the usual update components face issues. Essentially, WUMS acts as a recovery mechanism for the Windows Update system, ensuring that critical updates can still be installed even if user-initiated actions have disrupted the process.
Purpose of Windows Update Medic Service
The primary goal of the Windows Update Medic Service is to enhance the reliability of the Windows Update service. Windows updates are critical for various reasons:
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Security: Updates often include patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors. Keeping the system updated is vital for maintaining a secure environment.
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Performance: Updates can optimize system performance and introduce enhancements that improve user experience.
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New Features: Microsoft introduces new features and functionalities through updates. These improvements can greatly augment the usability of the operating system.
Given the importance of updates, disruptions during their installation can lead to significant issues, both for individual users and organizations. WUMS helps mitigate these issues by monitoring and restoring Windows Update functionality when necessary.
How the Windows Update Medic Service Works
The Windows Update Medic Service operates subtly in the background to monitor and maintain the integrity of the Windows Update mechanism. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
-
Automatic Activation: When Windows Update encounters a problem that prevents it from downloading or installing updates, WUMS is activated automatically. This means users typically don’t need to intervene; the service operates independently.
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Restoration of Update Components: WUMS has the ability to reset and repair the essential components of the Windows Update service. This could include repairing files or resetting configuration settings that might have become corrupted due to various factors such as failed update attempts or user modifications.
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Communication with Windows Update: WUMS communicates directly with Windows Update to ascertain what components are malfunctioning. It leverages a set of built-in commands that allow it to execute repairs without requiring the user’s input.
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Log and Report: As a part of its functionality, WUMS also logs its activities. While this information is mainly for internal use and developers, it enables Microsoft to identify common issues affecting users and improve future updates.
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System Resource Management: WUMS is designed to be lightweight in terms of resource consumption. It operates in the background without significantly impacting system performance, ensuring that users can continue with their daily activities uninterrupted.
When Does Windows Update Medic Service Activate?
The Windows Update Medic Service typically activates under the following circumstances:
-
Failed Updates: If Windows attempts to download or install an update and fails, WUMS may trigger to attempt to restore the update process.
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Corrupting Files: If updated files become corrupt due to improper installations or other errors, WUMS can jump in to repair these discrepancies.
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User Actions: Certain user actions—like pausing updates or turning off the update service—might lead WUMS to intervene to restore update functionality.
Common Issues Related to Windows Update Medic Service
While WUMS is designed to facilitate a smoother update process, users might sometimes encounter issues related directly to this service. Understanding these potential issues can help users manage their systems more effectively:
-
High Resource Usage: In some cases, users may notice increased CPU or memory usage attributed to the Windows Update Medic Service. This can occur during periods of intense update activity while WUMS is attempting to repair or restore the update services.
-
Failure to Repair: Occasionally, WUMS itself may face issues preventing it from effectively restoring the Windows Update service. Users might experience repeated failed update attempts despite WUMS’s interventions.
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Manual Interference: Tech-savvy users sometimes disable the Windows Update Medic Service, believing it to be unnecessary. This can lead to failures in the update process, as WUMS cannot perform its intended repairs.
How to Troubleshoot Windows Update Medic Service Issues
If you’re experiencing issues with Windows Update or suspect that the Windows Update Medic Service might be causing problems, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
-
Check Service Status: Ensure that the Windows Update Medic Service is running. You can do this by:
- Pressing
Windows + R
, typingservices.msc
, and hitting Enter. - Looking for “Windows Update Medic Service” in the list. Right-click on it, and ensure it’s running and set to automatic.
- Pressing
-
Restart the Service: Sometimes, simply restarting WUMS can resolve minor glitches. Right-click the service and choose ‘Restart’ to refresh it.
-
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically identify and resolve common issues with Windows Update. To access it:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click on “Additional troubleshooters” then select “Windows Update” and follow the prompts.
-
Perform a System Scan: Running a system scan using the System File Checker (SFC) can help detect and repair corrupt system files that may be affecting the update process. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command:
sfc /scannow
. -
Check Windows Update Logs: Reviewing the logs generated by the Windows Update Medic Service can provide insight into recurring issues. While primarily for developers, some users can decipher logs to diagnose problems.
-
Update Manually: If WUMS fails to install critical updates, consider manually downloading and installing updates from the Microsoft Update Catalog. This can serve as a temporary fix until the underlying issues are resolved.
Best Practices for Managing Windows Update Medic Service
To ensure that the Windows Update Medic Service functions optimally, it’s essential to adhere to best practices regarding system maintenance and updates:
-
Never Disable Update Services: While it may be tempting to disable Windows Update facilities for speed or control, this can lead to missed critical updates and security vulnerabilities. Allow WUMS to function as intended.
-
Keep Your System Clean: Regular maintenance, such as utilizing disk cleanup tools and removing unnecessary files, can help prevent issues that may affect Windows Update.
-
Educate Yourself on Update Policies: Familiarize yourself with Windows Update policies, especially if you’re managing multiple machines or a network. This knowledge can help optimize the update process.
-
Regularly Check for Updates: Make a habit of checking for updates manually if automatic options are disabled. This ensures your system remains current and secure.
-
Back Up Regularly: System backups can provide fallback options if something goes wrong after an update. Consider using built-in Windows Backup or third-party solutions for comprehensive backups.
-
Engage with the Community: Leverage forums and Microsoft’s support resources to learn about common issues other users experience with WUMS and how to address them effectively.
Conclusion
The Windows Update Medic Service is a vital component of the Windows operating system, designed solely to enhance the overall update process, thus ensuring that users remain protected with the latest security measures and system enhancements. Understanding WUMS, its functionality, and how to troubleshoot related issues can empower users to manage their systems better. By following best practices, users can ensure the efficient operation of the Windows Update mechanism and, by extension, the integrity of their computing environment.
As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive with system management ensures that users derive the best experience from modern operating systems like Windows 10 and beyond.
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- What Is Windows Update Medic Service and How to Disable It?
By Tina |
Last Updated
What is the Windows Update Medic Service? How to disable Windows Update Medic Service? This post will show you the answers. In addition, you can visit MiniTool to find more Windows tips and solutions.
What Is Windows Update Medic Service?
When you are trying to update Windows 10, you need the help of Windows Update Service. However, the Windows Update service may be the target of errors and file inconsistencies. When it happens, several services start running in the background, looking to repair Windows Update. Hence, one of the components is the Windows Update Medic Service.
The Windows Update Medic Service, also known as WaasMedicSVC, is a new background service that was introduced in Windows 10 and the new way this OS handles the updating process. The purpose of Windows Update Medic Service is to repair the Windows Update service so that your computer can continue to receive updates unhindered.
Windows Update Medic Service also handles the remediation and protection of all Windows Update components. As such, even if you disable all Windows Update-related services, WaasMedic will restart them at some point.
However, you can also choose to disable Windows Update Medic Service. But, you may receive the error message Windows Update Medic Service access denied when disabling it from Windows Service Manager. So, we will show you other Windows Update Medic Service disable method.
How to Disable Windows Update Medic Service?
To disable Windows Update Medic Service, you need the help of third-party software. The good recommendation is the Windows Update Blocker.
Now, we will show you how to disable Windows Update Medic Service.
1. Download Windows Update Blocker.
2. Extract the file.
3. Launch Windows Update Blocker.
4. Go to the Menu.
5. Select Windows Service from the context menu.
6. Then the Services window will be called out and look for Windows Update Medic Service.
7. Then copy the service’s name.
8 Go back to the folder where you extracted the Windows Update Blocker.
9. Open the ini file with Notepad.
10. And look right under dosvc=2,4.
11. Paste the service name there and add =3,4 in the back of it.
12. Go back to Windows Update Blocker window.
13. Click Apply Now to confirm the changes.
When all steps are finished, you have disabled Windows Update Medic Service. This is pretty much everything there is to know about the Windows Update Medic Service and how you can disable and enable it again.
Besides the method listed above, you can also choose to disable Windows Update Medic Service via the Registry. Open it and then navigate to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc path and then set its value data to 4. After that, the Windows Update Medic Service is disabled.
Final Words
To sum up, this post has introduced what the Windows Update Medic Service is and how to disable Windows Update Medic Service. To disable it, you cannot do that via the Windows Service Manager. You need to disable it via the Windows Update Blocker. If you any better idea to disable Windows Update Medic Service, you can share it in the comment zone.
About The Author
Position: Columnist
Tina is a technology enthusiast and joined MiniTool in 2018. As an editor of MiniTool, she is keeping on sharing computer tips and providing reliable solutions, especially specializing in Windows and files backup and restore. Besides, she is expanding her knowledge and skills in data recovery, disk space optimizations, etc. On her spare time, Tina likes to watch movies, go shopping or chat with friends and enjoy her life.
Microsoft and we always recommend you to install latest Windows Updates for smooth functioning of your system. In absence of latest updates, you may face trouble in operating your Windows.
In case if updates doesn’t works well or you want to disable Windows Updates, you can do so by blocking them via Group Policy or set connection as Metered as mentioned in this article. Even then, Windows Updates will be still detected but won’t downloaded automatically.
If you want to prevent even detection of Windows Updates, you can do so by disabling Windows Update service. For that you may also need to configure Windows Update Medic Service (WaaSMedicSvc) and disable it.
What Is Windows Update Medic Service?
By service definition, it enables remediation and protection of Windows Update components. This means if Windows Update feature is facing issues in working, it will heal that and make sure your system keeps receiving Windows Updates.
For other services, the Startup type is either Automatic, Manual or Disabled but for this service Startup type is System. Due to this reason, you can’t disable the service and when you do so, you receive ‘Access is denied‘ message.
How To Configure Windows Update Medic Service
Some users may want to disable Windows Update Medic Service in case if they no longer want to receive updates or for any other reason. But as we mentioned above, you can’t disable the service by setting its Startup type as Disabled. For that, you need to try this simple registry manipulation:
1. Open Registry Editor by running regedit
command.
2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WaaSMedicSvc
.
3. In right pane, double click on Start
registry DWORD to modify its Value data.
4. Set the Value data to 4 to disable Windows Update Medic Service. Click OK. Close Registry Editor and reboot to make changes effective.
After restarting your system, the service should be disabled.
To re-enable the service later, restore Start
registry DWORD Value data to 2 for Startup type Automatic (Delayed Start) or Automatic only. Or you can set it to 3 for Manual Startup type.
Check this video to illustrate above steps:
That’s it!