Is it possible to disable Sublime updating without modifying file ‘hosts’ (and setting sublimetext.com 127.0.0.1, etc) ?

“update_check”: false,

seems to be not working, I am often see window about new version.

Why not… just update?

Lets see. The built-in method doesnt work and you dont want to modify the host file.

Can I suggest you to unplug your internet cable from your computer? :^)
Or add a rule to your firewall.

But seriously if the setting doesnt work, perhaps consider updating to a version where it works.

I am using build 3065 now and I see various problems with newer builds. Why should I update then?

Build 3065 is good for me, I want it stay so.

I have a similar issue where I do not have administrator access to complete the update because it is a work computer. I found the same code in an old forum post:

“update_check”: false,

But adding it to my User Preferences does not work.

I am not certain, but I believe that the update check false doesn’t work for stable builds.

It works for both stable and development builds, but it only works for people that have a license installed. Presumably the theory is that if you don’t have a license you’re running a trial to see if it’s useful, and in that case you should always be trying out the latest version, although this is just a guess on my part.