Windows 11’s data collection practices have become more extensive as of 2024, causing concerns among privacy advocates.
The recently announced Recall feature is a major privacy issue, but Windows 11 was already collecting various types of data on user activities and usage patterns. While some data collection is essential for system functionality, much of it isn’t.
Thankfully, a significant portion of Windows 11’s data collection is optional. You can opt out during setup or disable most of it later, though Microsoft hasn’t made the process easy.
Here’s a breakdown of how Windows 11 collects your data and how to opt out of each method (where possible).
Mandatory Data Collection
Microsoft classifies certain data collection as “mandatory,” stating it’s essential for keeping Windows running smoothly, up-to-date, and secure.
This includes basic device information, hardware components, and diagnostic data during system failures.
For diagnostics, Microsoft collects basic error reporting data, such as the success of Windows updates and operating system functionality. It also gathers details about your Windows version, build, optional installations, and installed apps and services.
You can’t opt out of this collection, but the rest is (mostly) optional. For more details on mandatory data, refer to this Microsoft Learn article.
Optional Data Collection
For optional data collection, note that some Windows 11 apps and services require specific data, but these apps and services can be disabled. Thus, this data is considered “optional.”
Here’s how Windows 11 collects optional data and how to opt out of each method. For a detailed explanation, Microsoft provides extensive information here.
Browsing History
Windows 11 tracks your web browsing activity, including history and search terms in Microsoft browsers like Edge. It also tracks changes to browser settings.
To disable this, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle Send optional diagnostic data to Off.
Connected Devices
The same setting that collects error reporting data also allows Microsoft to gather details about your device and connected peripherals, including webcams, storage drives, displays, and more. It collects their names, drivers, Wi-Fi details, and usage information.
To disable this, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle Send optional diagnostic data to Off.
Inking and Typing
Windows 11 collects anonymized data on your typed, handwritten, and spoken inputs, including keyboard typing, dictation, and stylus use. This data helps improve relevant services like voice recognition.
To disable this, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle Improve inking and typing to Off.
Product and Service Performance
This telemetry data focuses on device and operating system health, apps, and drivers. It includes how quickly Cortana responds or how long facial recognition takes.
To turn this off, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle both Send optional diagnostic data and Tailored experiences to Off.
Product and Service Usage
Windows 11 tracks app usage and errors, as well as disabled help and suggestion functions, mainly for tailored experiences.
To disable this, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle both Send optional diagnostic data and Tailored experiences to Off.
Software Setup and Inventory
Windows 11 collects information on apps, anti-malware services, driver updates, and more, using this data for tailored experiences.
To disable this, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle both Send optional diagnostic data and Tailored experiences to Off.
Location
Windows 11 uses location data for Find my Device, relevant search results, and local information. It can also be accessed by third-party apps with permission.
To turn off location tracking, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Location and toggle Location services to Off. Alternatively, disable it for individual apps on the same page.
Viewing Your Data
To view the data Windows 11 is tracking, navigate to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback and toggle View diagnostic data to On. Install the Diagnostic Data Viewer app from the Microsoft Store to browse through the collected data.