In today's world, information is currency and is continuously collected, including by operating systems. If you're using Windows 11 and concerned about protecting your personal data, learn.howtogeek.com speakWhich operating system functions should be disabled?
Disable advertising ID
Windows 11 Advertising ID tracks what apps and services you use to deliver more targeted and relevant ads. Luckily, this option can be disabled in the security and privacy settings. You will still receive ads but they will not be personalized.
Disable optional diagnostics and feedback
By default, Windows collects both required and optional diagnostic data, including PC characteristics, application statistics, and website activity. There is no way to disable the collection of essential information, but optional information may be limited. Go to the Diagnostics and Feedback menu and disable options related to optional data and print quality enhancement. Then also clear the collected data in the same menu.
Turn off geolocation
Windows tracks your location to remotely find devices and apps that need geographic data, such as weather tracking and social media clients. If you do not want your PC to reveal this information, go to the menu “Privacy and security” – “Location” and turn off the corresponding slider.
Update permissions of installed applications
Apps can pose major security and privacy risks, especially those with access to your microphone, location, and files. However, Windows allows you to limit their permissions in many ways. If you want to configure an app's permissions, go to Settings – Apps – Installed apps. Find the app, click on it and click “Advanced options”. Then a list of permissions that can be changed will appear on the screen.
Turn off activity history
Activity history tracks the apps you use, files you open, and websites you visit in Edge. You can turn this feature off in your privacy settings to prevent the system from collecting this information.
