Reviewing Privacy Settings During Windows 11 Setup

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Reach the Privacy Settings screen

   Proceed through the initial installation prompts, including language selection, keyboard layout, and network connection. After checking for updates, the setup assistant will present the 'Choose privacy settings for your device' screen.

   Note: Do not rush past this screen; the defaults are set to maximum data collection.
2. 1 min

   Disable Location Services

   Locate the 'Location' toggle at the top of the list. Switch the toggle to 'Off' to prevent applications from accessing your precise physical location data.

3. 1 min

   Restrict Diagnostic Data

   Find the 'Diagnostic data' section. Select the option labeled 'Required diagnostic data' to limit the information sent to Microsoft to only essential system health checks.

   Note: This prevents the sending of optional usage data, such as browser history or feature usage frequency.
4. 30 sec

   Deactivate Inking and Typing

   Toggle the 'Inking and typing' setting to 'Off'. This stops the transmission of your handwriting and typing patterns to Microsoft servers for input improvement.

5. 30 sec

   Disable Find My Device and Advertising ID

   Scroll down to 'Find my device' and 'Advertising ID'. Switch both toggles to 'Off' to prevent persistent tracking and the creation of a personalized ad profile based on your activity.

6. 30 sec

   Accept and Continue

   Verify that all toggles are set to your preference. Click the 'Accept' button at the bottom of the window to apply these privacy configurations and proceed to the desktop environment.

   Note: You can modify these settings at any time via Settings > Privacy & security.