Protecting your privacy on Windows 10 and 11 is more important than ever. From system telemetry to app permissions, Windows often collects and shares information that many users would prefer to keep private. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, this guide provides practical, easy-to-follow steps to improve your privacy and security on your PC.
Beginner Level: Essential Windows Privacy Settings
What Are the Key Privacy Settings Every User Should Check?
Windows makes it easy to adjust key privacy settings, but many are enabled by default. Here’s how to review and adjust them:
Step 1: Open the Privacy Settings
Click the Start menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
Choose Privacy & security from the left sidebar.
Step 2: Adjust General Privacy Options
Under the General tab, disable options like:
– Let apps use advertising ID
– Send Microsoft info about how I write
– Show me suggested content in the Settings app
Step 3: Limit Location Access
Go to Location and turn off location access for the device or restrict which apps can use your location.
Step 4: Review Diagnostic Data
In Diagnostics & feedback, set the option to Required diagnostic data only.
Step 5: Control App Permissions
Scroll through permissions like Camera, Microphone, Contacts, and Calendar. Toggle off access for apps that don’t need it.
Step 6: Use Glary Utilities for Additional Privacy
Glary Utilities includes a Privacy & Security section where you can:
– Erase browsing and usage tracks
– Manage startup programs that may infringe on your privacy
– Clean up traces left by third-party apps
By using Glary Utilities’ Tracks Eraser tool, you ensure that temporary files, browser histories, and other personal data are removed with one click. This is especially valuable if you share your device or want extra assurance beyond Windows’ built-in tools.
Intermediate Level: Strengthen Your Digital Footprint
How Can You Minimize Tracking and Data Sharing?
Step 1: Disable Cortana and Web Search
Open Settings > Privacy & security > Search permissions.
Turn off Cloud content search and History.
Step 2: Manage Activity History
In Privacy & security, choose Activity history.
Uncheck “Store my activity history on this device.”
Click “Clear” to remove existing activity history.
Step 3: Check Microsoft Account Privacy Dashboard
Visit https://account.microsoft.com/privacy.
Review and delete data such as browsing history, location activity, and Cortana voice recordings.
Step 4: Harden Your Web Browsing
Switch to privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or Brave.
Use browser extensions like uBlock Origin and HTTPS Everywhere.
Step 5: Use Glary Utilities to Automate Privacy Maintenance
Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance can regularly clean privacy traces, browser cache, and cookies across multiple browsers, preventing third-party tracking and reducing your digital footprint.
Advanced Level: Take Full Control of Your Data
What Advanced Steps Can You Take to Enhance Privacy?
Step 1: Modify Group Policy Settings (Windows Pro or Enterprise)
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” and set it to Disabled.
Step 2: Debloat Windows
Use PowerShell scripts or specialized tools to remove unwanted apps and telemetry services. For example:
Open PowerShell as Administrator
Type:
Get-AppxPackage *xbox* | Remove-AppxPackage
Research reputable debloating scripts tailored to your needs.
Step 3: Harden Network Privacy
Disable Wi-Fi Sense in Network & Internet settings.
Set your network to Private instead of Public.
Step 4: Encrypt Your Data
Turn on BitLocker (Windows Pro) from Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
Step 5: Use Glary Utilities’ File Shredder and Encryption
Glary Utilities includes a File Shredder for files you want to permanently delete, ensuring they can’t be recovered by forensic tools. The File Encryption tool allows you to password-protect sensitive files and folders.
Real-World Example: Privacy Maintenance Routine
Let’s say you use your laptop for work and personal tasks. At the end of each week:
– Run Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance to erase browsing and system traces.
– Open Settings and review any new apps that may have been installed, adjusting their permissions.
– Visit the Microsoft Privacy Dashboard to clear any residual cloud data.
– Review startup items in Glary Utilities to ensure no privacy-invading apps are running unnoticed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will changing these privacy settings affect system functionality?
A: Disabling some features (like location or Cortana) may limit certain app capabilities, but most users won’t notice a major difference. It’s about balancing convenience with privacy.
Q: How often should I review privacy settings?
A: At least once a quarter, or after major Windows updates, review your privacy settings and run cleanup with Glary Utilities.
Final Thoughts
Enhancing your privacy on Windows 10 or 11 doesn’t require expert knowledge, but it does demand awareness and regular maintenance. By following these step-by-step instructions and leveraging all-in-one tools like Glary Utilities, you can confidently safeguard your personal information and enjoy greater peace of mind while using your PC. Whether you’re just starting or ready to fine-tune advanced settings, these actionable strategies will help you organize your Windows privacy enhancements like a pro.