7 ways Windows 11 collects your data – and how to opt out [Video]

As of 2024, Windows now collects more data about you than ever before, and it’s a real point of concern for privacy enthuasists.

It’s not just that the recently announced Recall feature is a privacy nightmare, but Windows 11 is already collecting all kinds of data as far as what you’re doing, what you’re using, and more. Some of it’s necessary for the main system to function, but not all of it is.

Fortunately, a lot of Windows 11’s data collection is optional. You can decline the tracking during initial setup, or turn most of it off after the fact—even if Microsoft is making it more difficult to do.

Here are all of the ways Windows 11 collects your data and how you can opt out of each one (when possible).

Microsoft classifies some data collection as “required,” claiming that this data is necessary to keep Windows running effectively, up-to-date, and secure against various threats.

This data includes basic details like the model of your device running Windows, the …