I've been studying Windows telemetry for a decade - here's the only setting I turn off

2026-03-03 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Cybersecurity & Data Privacy, Software Development & Engineering, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure · Depth: Intermediate, long

Summary

Microsoft collects diagnostic data, also known as telemetry, from every Windows PC, a practice that generated significant controversy upon Windows 10's release in 2015 due to unsubstantiated spying concerns. Despite extensive scrutiny by privacy agencies, particularly in the EU, and subsequent adjustments by Microsoft to comply with regulations like those from the Dutch Data Protection Authority in 2017, no evidence has emerged to support claims of privacy infringement. The diagnostic data is categorized into "Required" and "Optional" levels. Required data, essential for Windows Update and product improvement, includes basic error information, device/application/driver details, and update performance logs. Optional data, which can be disabled, encompasses additional device details, browsing history, and device activity, and may include memory states during crashes. Microsoft provides a Diagnostic Data Viewer tool for users to inspect the telemetry being sent.

Key takeaway

For IT professionals and privacy-conscious users managing Windows PCs, you should ensure that "Optional diagnostic data" collection is disabled in Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback. While "Required" telemetry is vital for system stability and security, opting out of optional data minimizes the sharing of potentially sensitive information like browsing history or crash memory states, aligning with best practices for data privacy and compliance.

Key insights

Windows telemetry is essential for system function and improvement, with no evidence of privacy breaches.

Principles

• Diagnostic data is crucial for system reliability and security.
• Transparency tools can demystify data collection practices.

Method

Users can inspect Windows diagnostic data using the Diagnostic Data Viewer app, accessible via Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback, to understand what information is transmitted to Microsoft.

In practice

• Disable "Optional diagnostic data" in Windows settings.
• Utilize the Diagnostic Data Viewer to review telemetry.

Topics

• Windows Telemetry
• Diagnostic Data
• Data Privacy
• Microsoft Windows
• User Consent

Best for: IT Professional, Security Engineer, General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.