When packages are updated automatically, there is a chance that software that was previously working may suddenly stop functioning.

This guide explains how to disable automatic updates for APT packages.

# Check Automatic Update Settings

The automatic update settings are located in the 20auto-upgrades file within the /etc/apt/apt.conf.d directory. Below is an example of the settings:

APT::Periodic::Update-Package-Lists "1";
APT::Periodic::Unattended-Upgrade "1";

Update-Package-Lists indicates automatic package updates, while Unattended-Upgrade represents automatic package upgrades. A value of 1 enables the setting, and 0 disables it.

# Disable Automatic Updates

To disable automatic package updates and upgrades, edit 20auto-upgrades as shown below:

APT::Periodic::Update-Package-Lists "0";
APT::Periodic::Unattended-Upgrade "0";

This will disable automatic updates for packages.