How to disable data tracking features on Windows 11: personalized ads, location tracking, Edge, Cortana

How to disable data tracking features on Windows 11: personalized ads, location tracking, Edge, Cortana

by Mihai Neacsu on 19 February 2023 · 4247 views

There are several ways to disable data tracking features on Windows 11. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Disable personalized ads and diagnostic data:

    • Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback.
    • Under the "Diagnostic data" section, turn "Send optional diagnostic data" to Off.
    • Under the "Tailored experiences" section, turn off the toggle switch to disable personalized tips, ads, and recommendations.
  2. Turn off location tracking:

    • Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Location.
    • Turn off the toggle switch for "Allow apps to access your location".
  3. Disable tracking for specific apps:

    • Go to Settings > Privacy & security > App permissions.
    • Select an app from the list and turn off any permissions that you don't want the app to have.
  4. Disable tracking for Microsoft Edge:

    • Open Microsoft Edge.
    • Click on the three dots in the top right corner to open the menu.
    • Go to Settings > Privacy, search and services.
    • Turn off any tracking options you don't want.
  5. Disable Cortana:

    • Click Start, search for Cortana and click the App Settings.
    • Turn Background app permissions to "Never" and Microphone to Off.

Note that disabling some tracking features may impact certain functionalities of the operating system or apps, so proceed with caution and be aware of the potential consequences.

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