Are you concerned about your digital privacy on Windows 11? Microsoft’s latest operating system offers many privacy and security options, but some settings need a hands-on approach for true control. This guide explores actionable and advanced techniques for intermediate Windows users who want to enhance privacy without sacrificing system functionality.
Why Do Windows Privacy Enhancements Matter?
Windows 11, like its predecessors, collects data to improve user experience and system performance. However, not all data collection is necessary for everyone. Reducing telemetry, limiting app access, and managing online accounts can protect your sensitive information from unnecessary exposure.
Which Built-in Settings Should You Tweak First?
Start by customizing Windows’ built-in privacy controls. Open Settings > Privacy & Security. Here are the crucial sections to review:
1. Diagnostics & Feedback
Set Diagnostic data to “Required only.” This limits the information Microsoft collects about device health and usage.
Turn off “Tailored experiences” and “Send optional diagnostic data” to reduce tracking further.
2. Activity History
Disable “Store my activity history on this device” and “Send my activity history to Microsoft.”
3. App Permissions
Scroll down to “App permissions.” Review each category (Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, etc.) and toggle off access for apps that don’t need it. For example, only allow Teams or Zoom to use your microphone and camera.
How Can You Control Telemetry and Background Services?
Windows collects telemetry data in the background. Intermediate users can further minimize this with these methods:
Group Policy Editor (Windows 11 Pro and above)
Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Data Collection and Preview Builds.
Double-click “Allow Telemetry,” set to “Enabled,” and select “0 – Security” (minimum data).
Services Management
Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
Find “Connected User Experiences and Telemetry.” Right-click > Properties > Startup type: Disabled.
Do the same for “Diagnostics Tracking Service” if available.
Note: Disabling some services may affect specific Windows features, like updates or personalized recommendations.
Can You Harden Your Browser Privacy?
Most data leaks occur through browsers. Tweak Edge, Chrome, or Firefox with these steps:
Edge:
Go to Settings > Privacy, Search, and Services.
Set Tracking Prevention to “Strict.”
Disable “Send data about how you use the browser.”
Chrome:
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security.
Turn off “Make searches and browsing better.”
Firefox:
Settings > Privacy & Security > Enhanced Tracking Protection: Strict.
Additionally, clear cookies and site data regularly and consider privacy extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger.
What About Microsoft Account vs. Local Account?
A Microsoft Account syncs settings and data across devices, but a local account keeps more data on your PC.
To switch:
Settings > Accounts > Your info > Sign in with a local account instead.
This method gives you more control, but you’ll lose some sync features.
How Do You Clean Up Digital Footprints and Junk Data?
Unwanted files, logs, and cached data can expose usage patterns. For advanced, regular cleanup and privacy protection, Glary Utilities is a reliable solution.
Why Glary Utilities for Privacy Enhancement?
Glary Utilities offers several privacy-focused tools designed for Windows 11:
Tracks Eraser:
Wipes browser history, cookies, recent file lists, and other traces from popular applications.
Disk Cleaner:
Removes temporary files, logs, and system cache that may contain sensitive information.
File Shredder:
Securely deletes files beyond recovery, ideal for confidential documents.
Startup Manager:
Controls which applications run at startup, reducing background data collection.
How to Use Glary Utilities for Privacy Tasks:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Open the program and select “1-Click Maintenance.” This automatically checks for privacy risks, junk files, and tracks.
3. For more control, go to the “Advanced Tools” tab, select “Privacy & Security,” and explore options like Tracks Eraser and File Shredder.
4. Set a schedule for regular scans to maintain ongoing privacy protection.
Should You Use Additional Privacy Tools?
Intermediate users can also use tools like O&O ShutUp10++ or W10Privacy for even finer control over privacy settings. Always read documentation and back up your system before applying advanced tweaks.
How Can You Stay Alert for Privacy Changes?
Windows 11 updates can reset or introduce new privacy settings. Review your privacy options after major updates. Set reminders to revisit your configuration and rescan with Glary Utilities.
Conclusion
Enhancing privacy in Windows 11 requires a blend of system settings, service management, browser hardening, and regular cleanup. As an intermediate user, you can combine built-in controls with advanced tools like Glary Utilities to keep your data safe and your system running smoothly. Remember, digital privacy is ongoing—keep learning and updating your defenses to stay ahead.