In an increasingly connected world, privacy is a growing concern for many computer users. Windows, like many modern operating systems, collects data to improve services, provide personalized experiences, and help troubleshoot issues. While some of this data collection is benign and even helpful, you might prefer to have more control over what information your PC sends back to Microsoft.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose between a private system and a functional one. With a few tweaks, you can significantly reduce the amount of data Windows collects without sacrificing essential features or crippling your PC’s usability.
At AS Computer Solutions, we understand the importance of digital privacy. While we can’t eliminate all data collection (some is necessary for Windows to operate), we can guide you through the key settings to lock down your privacy preferences. Let’s dive in!
✅ Step 1: Adjust Privacy Settings During Setup (or Anytime)
The first opportunity to take control is during the initial Windows installation, but you can always revisit these settings later.
📝 During Installation:
When you set up a new Windows PC, pay close attention to the “Choose privacy settings for your device” screen. Here, you’ll be presented with several toggles. While it might be tempting to accept the defaults, we recommend turning off most of them, especially those related to:
Location: Unless you rely on location-based services.
Speech recognition: If you don’t use Cortana or voice typing.
Diagnostics data: Set this to “Basic” if available.
Tailored experiences with diagnostic data: Turn this off to prevent personalized ads.
Inking & typing: Disables sending your writing/typing patterns.
Advertising ID: Turn this off to prevent apps from using a unique ID to show you targeted ads.
⚙️ After Installation (via Settings App):
You can access and modify these settings anytime:
Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
Click on Privacy & security.
On the left-hand pane, you’ll see various categories like “General,” “Speech,” “Diagnostics & feedback,” “Activity history,” and more. Go through each one.
General: Turn off “Let apps show me personalized ads” and “Let websites provide locally relevant content.”
Speech: Turn off “Online speech recognition” if you don’t use voice features.
Inking & typing personalization: Turn this off if you don’t want Windows to learn your writing style.
Diagnostics & feedback: Set “Diagnostic data” to Required diagnostic data (Basic) if possible. Turn off “Send optional diagnostic data.” Also, set “Feedback frequency” to “Never.”
Activity history: Uncheck “Store my activity history on this device” and “Send my activity history to Microsoft.” Clear existing activity if desired.
Search permissions: Limit what Bing Search sends.
App permissions (Location, Camera, Microphone, Notifications, Account info, etc.): This is crucial. Review each app’s access to sensitive data. For example, turn off location for apps that don’t need it. Restrict camera or microphone access to only essential applications.
🛠️ Step 2: Tweak Other Privacy-Related Features
Beyond the main Privacy & security section, a few other areas can be adjusted.
📌 Scenario 1: Cortana & Search
Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant, can collect data to personalize your experience. If you don’t use Cortana, you can disable much of its functionality.
Try This:
Search settings: In the Windows search bar, type “Search settings” and open it.
Go to Permissions & History.
Under “Cloud content search,” consider turning off “Microsoft account” and “Work or school account” if you don’t want search results from online sources.
Under “History,” you can clear device search history.
Cortana: In Windows 10, you can largely disable Cortana through its settings. In Windows 11, Cortana is more of a separate app you can simply uninstall if not used.
⚠️ Scenario 2: OneDrive Synchronization
OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service, and it automatically syncs files. While convenient, it means your files are on Microsoft’s servers.
Try This:
If you don’t use OneDrive, you can unlink your account or even uninstall the app.
Right-click the OneDrive cloud icon in the taskbar.
Go to Settings > Account.
Click Unlink this PC.
If you do use it, be mindful of what folders are set to sync. Only sync what you’re comfortable with being in the cloud.
🔄 Scenario 3: Windows Updates & Delivery Optimization
While essential for security, Windows Update uses a feature called Delivery Optimization to download updates from and send updates to other PCs on your local network or even the internet.
Try This:
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization.
Turn off “Allow downloads from other PCs.” This will ensure your PC only gets updates directly from Microsoft, preventing it from sharing updates with others.
🧰 Still Concerned? Consider Third-Party Tools or Advanced Tweaks
For those who want to go even further, there are more advanced options, though they require more technical expertise and can occasionally affect system stability if not used carefully.
Try These (Use with Caution):
Group Policy Editor (Pro/Enterprise editions): The Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) offers granular control over many Windows features, including telemetry and data collection. This is a powerful tool and should only be used by experienced users.
Registry Editor (regedit.exe): Similar to Group Policy, the Registry Editor allows you to modify low-level system settings. Incorrect changes can destabilize your system. Back up your registry before making changes.
Third-party Privacy Tools: Several reputable third-party tools (e.g., O&O ShutUp10++) are designed to help you disable various Windows privacy settings in one go. Always download these from trusted sources and read reviews.
We can:
Help you navigate complex privacy settings without breaking essential features.
Advise on appropriate data collection levels based on your usage.
Ensure your system remains secure while maximizing your privacy.
Provide guidance on safe third-party tools if you wish to explore them.
🏡 Local. Reliable. Ready to Help.
Achieving a balance between privacy and functionality in Windows is entirely possible. By systematically going through your privacy settings and understanding what each option does, you can significantly reduce Windows’s data collection while still enjoying a seamless computing experience.
If you find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer number of options, or if you want professional assistance in securing your privacy settings, don’t hesitate to reach out. AS Computer Solutions is dedicated to helping our Onoway community with all their tech needs, including privacy and security.
Don’t let privacy concerns hold you back from enjoying your PC. Take control today!
Call or visit us today:
📞 (780) 967 0215
📍 Onoway, Alberta
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