Privacy on Windows 11 requires active configuration because default settings favor Microsoft's data collection. Here are the most impactful changes.
Most Critical Settings
Telemetry and Diagnostics
Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback Set Diagnostic data to Required only. Disable sending optional diagnostic data, inking and typing data, and tailored experiences.
Activity History
Settings > Privacy & Security > Activity History Disable Store my activity history on this device. This prevents Windows from tracking which apps and files you use.
Advertising ID
Settings > Privacy & Security > General Disable Let apps show me personalized ads using my advertising ID. Also disable Let Windows improve Start and search results by tracking app launches.
Location
Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Set location to Off or set it to On but review which apps have access. Disable Background apps location access for apps that do not need it.
Camera and Microphone
Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera / Microphone Review which apps have access. Disable for apps that have no legitimate need for these inputs.
Notifications
Settings > Privacy & Security > Notifications Disable Allow apps to access notifications if you do not want apps reading your notification content.
Microsoft Account and Sync
Using a local account instead of a Microsoft account prevents cloud sync of settings, browser history, and app preferences to Microsoft's servers. Settings > Accounts > Your Info > Sign in with a local account instead.
Windows Search
Settings > Privacy & Security > Search Permissions Disable SafeSearch if you do not need it. Disable History across my devices. Set Cloud content search to off for both Microsoft account and Work or School accounts.
Connected Devices
Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices Review connected devices and remove any you do not recognize or no longer use.
Browser Privacy
Edge, which comes with Windows 11, includes significant Microsoft telemetry. Consider replacing with Firefox or Brave. If you keep Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Tracking prevention and set to Strict. Disable the optional personalization features.
Windows Defender and Security
Keep Windows Defender enabled — it is Windows' built-in malware protection and the performance cost is minimal. Under Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection settings, review which automatic sample submission options are enabled.
Using Temp90 with Windows 11
For any new app or service you install on Windows 11 that requires email registration, use Temp90 for the initial account creation. Windows apps from the Microsoft Store and third-party applications frequently require account registration that triggers marketing pipelines. Temp90 provides clean registration without long-term email commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I disable Windows telemetry completely?
Windows does not allow complete disablement of telemetry in consumer editions. Setting Diagnostic data to Required only minimizes collection to what Microsoft considers essential for basic function.
Does using a local account instead of Microsoft account have downsides?
You lose automatic sync of settings across devices, OneDrive integration, and some Microsoft Store features. For users who prioritize privacy over these conveniences, local accounts are preferable.
Is Windows 11 more privacy-invasive than Windows 10?
Windows 11 has similar privacy architecture to Windows 10 but with additional features that require more privacy configuration. The steps above address the most significant additions.
Conclusion
Windows 11's default settings are optimized for Microsoft's data collection and personalization goals, not for your privacy. Spending 30-60 minutes adjusting the settings in this guide produces an immediate and meaningful improvement. Combined with a privacy-focused browser and Temp90 for app registrations, these changes create a significantly more private Windows environment.