can someone pls explain how "windows" can update when the WI-FI is turned off, and I don't have get the latest update on?

Windows can perform updates even when Wi-Fi is turned off due to the way updates are managed. When your device is powered on, it can check for updates that were previously downloaded and stored locally. This means that if an update was downloaded while the Wi-Fi was on, it can be installed during the next boot-up or restart, even if the Wi-Fi is turned off at that moment.

Additionally, Windows updates can include critical updates that are necessary for the device to operate properly. These updates may be scheduled to install automatically during specific times, such as during a reboot or when the device is not in use (like at 3 AM). This is part of the update behavior designed to ensure that the system remains secure and up-to-date without requiring constant user intervention.

As for your concern about updates happening without your explicit permission, Windows is designed to manage updates automatically to protect the system's integrity and security. However, you can manage these settings through the Windows Update settings to defer updates or change how they are installed if you prefer more control over the process.

References:

• Windows 365 Link device update behavior and control
• Windows updates during OOBE

So Microsoft can get into my laptop anytime it wants to check up on me

Hello John,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience I understand how confusing and frustrating it can be to see your device updating when you believe everything is turned off.

The reason this happens is that Windows updates are often prepared in advance. When your device was previously connected to Wi-Fi the update files were downloaded and stored locally. Even if Wi-Fi is off later the system can still install those updates during startup or shutdown because the files are already on your computer. This behavior is designed to keep your device secure and functioning properly without requiring constant manual checks.

To give you more control you can adjust your update settings by pausing updates or setting active hours in Windows Update Settings. This way updates won’t install at unexpected times.

I hope this answer is helpful if you have further questions feel free to reply back

Regards,

Marcelo