How to Change Device Usage Settings in Windows 11
Device usage settings in Windows 11 let you control how Microsoft collects data and manage your connected hardware.
These settings fine-tune your Windows experience by allowing the system to learn your habits, helping it provide personalized tips and recommendations.
You can also manage your Bluetooth & Devices here, which lets you connect and control things like printers, keyboards, and your smartphone.
Changing these settings affects the information Windows 11 gathers about your PC’s performance and how you use it, which can boost your privacy and possibly lessen targeted ads.
For instance, turning off diagnostic data collection stops Windows 11 from sending details about your device’s use to Microsoft.
Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I, then go to Personalization and select Device usage. Toggle categories like Gaming or Business on or off to control personalized tips and data collection. These changes adjust how Windows learns from your computer activity.
How to change device usage settings
You can change Windows 11 device usage settings in the Settings app to decide how your PC handles certain activities. This lets you manage things like gaming preferences or family safety options right from your computer.
1. Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I, or by clicking Start and choosing Settings.
2. In the Settings menu, click Personalization on the left.
3. Find and click the Device usage tile on the right.
You can control which Windows 11 device usage categories are active. These categories, such as Gaming, Family, or Business, appear on the Device Usage page. You can switch each category On or Off to personalize which data Windows 11 collects about your device's use.
Changing device usage settings applies to your specific user profile on Windows 11. You do not need administrator rights to change these settings, making them accessible to any user account for personalization.
Managing Hardware with Bluetooth & Devices
The Bluetooth & Devices section in Windows 11 is where you manage all your connected hardware. You can easily pair wireless headphones, add a new printer, or link your phone to your PC from this main area.
- Bluetooth: Toggle this to connect wireless headphones or speakers.
- Printers & Scanners: Add or remove printing devices here.
- Phone Link: Sync your mobile device to see texts and photos on your PC.
- Autoplay: Choose what happens when you plug in a USB drive or memory card.
- Pen & Windows Ink: Customize how your digital pen works on your screen.
Data Privacy and Usage
Yes, changing your Windows 11 device usage settings can affect your privacy because Windows collects data to improve features, but you can control this by turning off specific toggles or managing broader permissions in the Privacy & security tab.
Summary
Managing your Windows 11 device settings gives you control over both your privacy and your hardware. Use the Personalization section, then Device usage, to adjust how Windows suggests content to you. Use Bluetooth & devices to manage your peripherals. Both menus are manageable and require no special permissions to update.
Related Topics
- Understanding Privacy Settings in Windows 11
- Optimizing System Performance
- How to Connect Wireless Peripherals
How do I change my device usage settings in 🪟 Windows 11?
Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I. Navigate to Personalization, then select Device usage. From there, you can toggle specific categories like Gaming, Creativity, or Business to On or Off. These settings help Windows provide personalized tips based on how you use your computer daily.
What is the difference between Device Usage and Bluetooth & Devices settings?
Device Usage settings are for personalization, allowing Windows to suggest tips based on your habits. Bluetooth & Devices settings are for hardware management, allowing you to connect peripherals like printers, mice, and phones. One manages your software experience, while the other manages your physical hardware connections.
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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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