Can I stop Windows 8 download and install new updates to my computer automatically? The update interrupts my work and takes time to restart and reconfigure my computer.

Setting Windows Updates automatically downloading and installing new updates is important to keep Windows 8 updated with the latest patches and service packs. However, Microsoft publish updates too often. Whenever a new update is available, Windows 8 will download and force you to restart the system to install and configure the update.

If you don't like the automatic update installation option, you can change it using these steps:

1. Press Windows-X and select "Control Panel".

2. Click "System and Security", then "Windows Update". You will see the "Windows Update" screen.

3. Click "Change settings" on the left. You will see the settings screen.

Choose your Windows Update Settings

When your PC is online, Windows can automatically check for important
updates and install them using these settings. When new updates are
available, you can also choose to install them when you shut down your
PC.

Important updates
   Install updates automatically (recommended)
   Download updates but let me choose whether to install them
   Check for updates but let me choose whether to download/install them
   Never check for updates (not recommended)
   
Recommended updates
   Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates

Note: Windows Updates might update itself automatically first when
checking for other updates. Read our privacy statement online.

Personally, I think the best option is "Check for updates but let me choose whether to download/install them". Once a month or so, I will review all avaiable updates and install them all together.