How to Change Your Diagnostic Data Setting in Windows 11

What is Diagnostic Data?

Before we dive into changing settings, let’s get a handle on what diagnostic data is. Think of it like your computer sending reports back to Microsoft.

There are two main types:

• Required diagnostic data: This is the basic info needed to keep Windows safe, updated, and working. It includes your device’s setup and if it’s running okay.
• Optional diagnostic data: This is more detailed. It can include extra info about your device, how you use apps (called “usage data”), and more detailed error reports. Sending this data helps Microsoft find and fix problems faster, which in turn makes Windows better for everyone.

Even if you only send Required data, your device stays secure and works normally. The choice is about how much extra information you’re okay with sharing to help improve products.

Ready to take control? Here’s how to adjust your diagnostic data settings in Windows 11.

1. Open ⚙️ the Settings App

   Let’s find the right place in Windows. Here are a couple of ways to do it.

   • Click the ⊞ Start button (usually in the center of 🖥️ your taskbar). Then, click the Settings icon (it looks like a gear).
   • Or, press the Windows key + I on your keyboard. This shortcut opens Settings quickly.

2. Navigate to Privacy & security

   In ⚙️ the Settings window, look at the list on the left. Scroll down to Privacy & security and click it.

   Tip: ⚙️ The Settings app has many options. If you can’t find something, use 🔍 the search bar at the top. Type “diagnostics” to go straight there.

3. Locate Diagnostics & feedback

   In the “Privacy & security” section, find Diagnostics & feedback. This is where you control what Windows sends to Microsoft. Click on it.

4. Adjust the Diagnostic data setting

   Now you’re in the right spot! Look for the Diagnostic data section. You’ll see choices for how much data you want to send.

   You usually have two main options:

   Choose the option that you’re most comfortable with. If you’re unsure, selecting “Required” is a solid starting point.

   Practical Tip: If you’d like to know more about what “Optional” data includes, look for links on this screen. Microsoft usually provides more details there.

   Warning: You might need to 🔄 restart your PC for these changes to fully work, especially if you switch between Required and Optional. Windows will usually tell you if a restart is needed.

   • Required: Sends only the essential data for security, reliability, and basic functions.
   • Optional: Includes Required data plus extra information to help Microsoft improve products and features.

• Review Other Related Settings

  While you are in “Diagnostics & feedback,” look at the other settings:

  Review these settings and change them how you like. You can fine-tune your Windows experience!

  • Improve inking & typing: If you use a pen or touch screen, this lets Windows collect samples to improve handwriting recognition and text suggestions.
  • Tailored experiences (or Personalized offers): This setting uses your diagnostic data to offer personalized tips and recommendations across Microsoft services. You can turn it off if you’d rather not receive personalized offers.
  • Delete diagnostic data: You might see an option to delete diagnostic data already collected from your device.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/diagnostics-feedback-and-privacy-in-windows-28808a2b-a31b-dd73-dcd3-4559a5199319

Summary

In Windows 11, you can control how much diagnostic data your computer sends to Microsoft. By going to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback, you can choose between “Required” and “Optional” diagnostic data. “Required” is the minimum needed for security and basic function. “Optional” provides more details to help Microsoft improve products. You can also manage settings for inking and typing, tailored experiences, and delete previously collected data. Changing these settings helps you manage your privacy while using Windows.