How to Delete Diagnostic Data in Windows 11
Diagnostic data in Windows 11 consists of background information your PC collects and sends to Microsoft about your hardware, apps, and how you use the system. Clearing this data removes the stored activity history from Microsoft servers and stops your PC from sending future diagnostic reports.
Windows 11 saves this information to help fix bugs and improve performance, but you can delete it at any time to keep your private data off Microsoft servers. You only need to open the Windows 11 Settings app to wipe this data in a few clicks.
Open Settings , go to Privacy & security, then Diagnostics & feedback, and click Del diagnostic data. This clears your local diagnostic history.
Why Remove 🪟 Windows 11 Diagnostic Data?
Why do this? You might want to stop Microsoft from tracking your habits. You might also want to ensure no sensitive system information remains on their servers. What happens when done? Your local and cloud-based diagnostic history is cleared, giving you a cleaner privacy profile.
Required vs. Optional Diagnostic Data
Windows 11 collects two kinds of diagnostic data: required and optional.
How to Delete Diagnostic Data via Settings
This is the easiest way to clear your history.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & security.
- Click Diagnostics & feedback.
Windows 11 Diagnostics & Feedback settings tile location - Select Delete diagnostic data.
- Click the Delete button.
Delete diagnostic data in Windows 11
Advanced Telemetry Disabling
For power users, you can stop the telemetry service entirely. Note: This requires admin privileges.
- Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
- Find Connected User Experiences and Telemetry.
- Right-click it and select Properties.
- Set Startup type to Disabled and click Stop.
Using the Registry Editor
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
Create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named AllowTelemetry and set it to 0.
Using Group Policy Editor
If you have Windows 11 Pro and admin rights, you can remove Windows 11 diagnostic data using the Group Policy Editor. This tool lets you control how much information Windows sends to Microsoft. Simply open the editor, find the right settings, and turn off telemetry collection to stop sending diagnostic data.
- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
- Navigate to Computer Configuration Administrative Templates Windows Components Data Collection and Preview Builds.
- Double-click Allow Telemetry and set it to Disabled.
Summary
Removing Windows 11 diagnostic data helps you regain control over your privacy. By using the Settings app, you can clear existing data. For advanced users, the Registry or Group Policy Editor offers deeper control. Always remember to visit the Microsoft Privacy Dashboard to manage your cloud data as well.
Does disabling diagnostic data affect Windows updates?
No, disabling optional diagnostic data does not stop Windows updates. Your computer will continue to receive security patches and feature updates normally. However, keeping required diagnostic data enabled ensures Microsoft can identify specific hardware issues that might prevent your system from updating correctly in the future.
Is it safe to disable all telemetry in 🪟 Windows 11?
It is generally safe for home users to disable optional telemetry. However, disabling all telemetry services entirely can sometimes cause issues with specific Microsoft services or diagnostic tools. If you experience system instability, you may need to re-enable the Connected User Experiences and Telemetry service to restore full functionality.
Can I delete diagnostic data stored on Microsoft servers?
Yes, you can manage and delete the data Microsoft has already collected. Visit the official Microsoft Privacy Dashboard to view and clear your activity history, location data, and diagnostic information linked to your Microsoft account. This is the most effective way to remove cloud-stored data.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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