Why Privacy Settings Matter
Windows 11 shares several categories of information with Microsoft unless you change the defaults. The settings below help you decide what stays on your PC and what Microsoft is allowed to receive.
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Diagnostic Data
Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Diagnostics & Feedback.
- Required diagnostic data — Core device details and crash reports. Windows does not let you switch this off completely
- Optional diagnostic data — Web browsing history, app activity, and device usage → Turn this OFF
- Improve inking and typing → Turn OFF so typing patterns are not sent to Microsoft
Activity History
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Activity History.
- Remove the tick from "Store my activity history on this device"
- Select "Clear activity history"
Location Services
Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Location.
Disable location permission for any app that has no clear need for it. You may want to leave it on for Maps and Weather, depending on how you use them.
Camera & Microphone
Check app permissions for both your camera and microphone in Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera/Microphone.
Advertising ID
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → General.
- Switch OFF "Let apps show me personalized ads"
- Switch OFF "Let websites show me locally relevant content"
Recommended Privacy Configuration
| Setting | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Optional diagnostic data | OFF |
| Inking & typing | OFF |
| Activity history | OFF |
| Advertising ID | OFF |
| Location (most apps) | OFF |
| Camera/Mic (review per app) | As needed |
Note
These options are available in both Windows 11 Home and Pro. If you use Windows 11 Pro, Group Policy also gives you more detailed telemetry controls.
