For those who rely on their PCs for daily tasks, it’s not uncommon to encounter security concerns or notice unusual behavior from your system. Perhaps your computer feels sluggish, or you’ve been bombarded with personalized ads that seem eerily relevant to your recent activities. While these issues may appear trivial, they often arise from default Windows settings that permit Microsoft to gather data, track user actions, and optimize performance in ways that may not align with your preferences. Fortunately, regaining control is simpler than you might think. With a few adjustments, you can limit data tracking, enhance system efficiency, and bolster your privacy—all without sacrificing your PC’s functionality.
By disabling certain settings, you can safeguard your personal information, free up system resources, and ensure that your PC operates according to your specifications. Here are three key settings to consider disabling:
3 Settings to Disable on Your PC
1. General Privacy Settings
To access your general privacy settings, press Windows key + I to open Settings. Navigate to Privacy & security or simply Privacy, depending on your Windows version, and click on General. You will likely find the first four features toggled on, allowing your computer to track your activity and share data with Microsoft and third-party advertisers. These features include:
- Allowing apps to show personalized ads using your advertising ID
- Tracking your app launches to improve the Start menu and search results
- Suggesting content based on your typing and activity
- Sending diagnostic data to Microsoft
While these options may seem innocuous, they can compromise your privacy by sharing personal data. To enhance your security, toggle them off to prevent unnecessary tracking and data collection.
2. Diagnostic and Feedback Settings
Similarly, if you navigate to Privacy & security or Privacy and select Diagnostics & feedback, you’ll discover that optional diagnostic settings are, by default, enabled. This means your PC is continuously sending detailed reports about your device usage, including app performance, website interactions, and system logs, to Microsoft. While Microsoft asserts that this data helps improve Windows, it also collects personal information such as your device name, location, and voice input. To stop your PC from transmitting this data, toggle it off or select Required Diagnostic Data under the Diagnostic & feedback settings, depending on your Windows version.
3. Background Apps
Many applications continue to run in the background even when not actively in use. This can lead to a sluggish PC and unnecessary battery drain. To manage this, go to Privacy & security or Privacy, then scroll down to Apps permissions and click on Background Apps to disable background activity. On the Background Apps page, toggle off “Let apps run in the background.” This action will halt all apps consuming RAM and battery while running in the background.
By making these adjustments, you empower yourself to reclaim control over your PC. The default settings may appear beneficial, but they often result in unnecessary tracking, diminished performance, and privacy concerns. A few simple tweaks can significantly enhance your experience, allowing your system to function in a manner that suits your needs.