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Control Microsoft Edge Diagnostic Data Settings

Written by

Richard

Feb 18, 2024 Updated Mar 19, 2026 3 min read

How to Manage Startup Page in Microsoft Edge

You can control whether Microsoft Edge sends required and optional diagnostic data to Microsoft.

Diagnostic data helps Microsoft improve its products and services, ensuring they are secure, up-to-date, and perform as expected. This data can include information about how you use the browser, the websites you visit, and crash reports.

Microsoft Edge, the default browser in Windows 11, collects diagnostic data by default to enhance its functionality and security. You have the power to adjust these settings.

You can choose to turn off all diagnostic data collection, send only required data, or allow optional data which provides more detailed insights for service improvement.

Enable or disable sending diagnostic data to Microsoft from Edge

As mentioned, you can enable or disable sending diagnostic data about your browse to Microsoft from Edge.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open Windows Registry Editor.

Then, navigate to the registry key below.

💻Code

ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftEdge

Next, double-click the DiagnosticData (REG_DWORD) name on the Explorer key’s right pane to open it.

Then, enter a value using the table below:

2 = Always send required and optional diagnostic data from Edge to Microsoft
1 = Only send required diagnostic data from Edge to Microsoft.
0 = Disable sending required and optional diagnostic data from Edge to Microsoft.

If you do not see the “DiagnosticData” item, right-click a blank area and create a new DWORD (32-bit) registry item.

Then, enter the name “DiagnosticData” and the value you want.

Enable or disable sending diagnostic data to Microsoft from Edge

To restore the default behavior, delete the “DiagnosticData” item created.

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Reference:

Microsoft support

Conclusion:

Enabling or disabling diagnostic data collection in Microsoft Edge is a personal choice that can impact privacy and browser performance.
Users can configure the “DiagnosticData” policy in the Windows Registry Editor to control sending required and optional diagnostic data to Microsoft from Edge.
Consider the implications of sending diagnostic data to Microsoft and make an informed decision based on privacy concerns and the need for product improvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enable diagnostic data collection in Microsoft Edge?

To enable diagnostic data collection in Microsoft Edge, open the Windows Registry Editor and navigate to ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftEdge. Double-click the 'DiagnosticData' entry and set its value to 2 to always send required and optional diagnostic data.

What are the different settings for diagnostic data in Edge?

In Microsoft Edge, you can set the diagnostic data collection to three levels: 2 for always sending both required and optional data, 1 for sending only required data, and 0 to disable all data collection.

Will turning off diagnostic data collection affect Edge's performance?

Yes, turning off diagnostic data collection may impact the performance and quality of Microsoft Edge's services, as Microsoft uses this data to improve their products and ensure they run smoothly.

How can I disable sending diagnostic data from Edge?

To disable sending diagnostic data from Microsoft Edge, access the Windows Registry Editor, navigate to the relevant key, and set the 'DiagnosticData' value to 0. This will turn off both required and optional data collection.

What should I do if I can't find the 'DiagnosticData' item in the registry?

If the 'DiagnosticData' item is not present in the registry, you can create it by right-clicking in a blank area, selecting 'New', and then choosing 'DWORD (32-bit) Value'. Name it 'DiagnosticData' and set the desired value.

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Tags: #Microsoft Edge

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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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