How to Disable Telemetry and Ads in Windows 11

Windows 11, like its predecessor, includes telemetry features and advertisements designed to enhance user experience and provide personalized content. However, many users prefer to disable these features to improve privacy and reduce distractions. This article will guide you through the steps to disable telemetry and ads in Windows 11.

What is Telemetry in Windows 11?

Telemetry is the process by which Microsoft collects diagnostic and usage data from your device to improve Windows. While this data is generally anonymized, some users are concerned about privacy and want to limit or disable telemetry.

How to Disable Telemetry in Windows 11

1. Using Settings

• Open Settings (press Win + I).
• Go to Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback.
• Under Diagnostic data, select Required diagnostic data to limit data collection.
• Turn off Tailored experiences to disable personalized tips and ads based on diagnostic data.

2. Using Group Policy Editor

Note: Group Policy Editor is available in Windows 11 Pro and above.

• Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
• Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Data Collection and Preview Builds.
• Double-click Allow Telemetry.
• Select Disabled or set it to Basic to limit data collection.
• Click Apply and OK.

3. Using Registry Editor

Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues. Make sure to back up your registry before making changes.

• Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
• Navigate to:
  HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
• If the AllowTelemetry DWORD does not exist, create it by right-clicking on the right pane and selecting New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
• Set the value of AllowTelemetry to 0 to disable telemetry.
• Restart your computer.

How to Disable Ads in Windows 11

Windows 11 displays ads in various places such as the Start menu, File Explorer, lock screen, and notifications. Here’s how to disable most of them.

1. Disable Ads in Start Menu

• Open Settings > Personalization > Start.
• Turn off Show suggestions occasionally in Start.

2. Disable Ads in File Explorer

• Open File Explorer.
• Click on View > Show > Options.
• In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
• Scroll down and uncheck Show sync provider notifications.
• Click Apply and OK.

3. Disable Lock Screen Ads

• Open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
• Change Personalize your lock screen from Windows spotlight to Picture or Slideshow.
• Turn off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.

4. Disable Ads in Notifications

• Open Settings > System > Notifications.
• Turn off Suggest ways I can finish setting up my device to get the most out of Windows.
• Turn off Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device.

Additional Tips

• Consider using third-party tools like O&O ShutUp10++ or W10Privacy which provide comprehensive options to disable telemetry and ads easily.
• Regularly check Windows Update settings to avoid re-enabling of telemetry or ads after system updates.

Conclusion

Disabling telemetry and ads in Windows 11 can enhance your privacy and make the user experience cleaner and less distracting. Follow the steps above carefully to adjust your system settings according to your preferences. Remember to create system restore points before making significant changes to avoid potential issues.