Windows 11 Recall Feature: How to Uninstall or Reinstall for Enhanced Privacy
Windows 11 Recall takes screenshots of your computer screen every five seconds to remember everything you do. Removing this feature stops Windows from recording your activity and helps protect your personal privacy.
Microsoft made Recall an optional feature starting with the KB5041865 update (build 26100.1591 for version 24H2). You can completely uninstall Recall from your PC if you do not want it taking pictures of your screen.
To uninstall Recall, open Windows Features by running OptionalFeatures.exe, uncheck Recall, and click OK. To reinstall, open the same menu, check the box for Recall, and click OK. Administrator privileges are required for these actions.
Add or remove Recall using Windows Features
Press the Win, type optionalfeatures, and press Enter to open the Windows Features window. Scroll down to find Recall in the list. Check the box to install it , or uncheck the box to uninstall.
- Open the Windows Features menu by running
OptionalFeatures.exe. - Find Recall in the list.
- Uncheck the box to remove it, or check the box to add it back.
Click OK to save changes. Note: This step requires administrator privileges.
Uninstall or Reinstall Recall using Command
Power users can manage Recall directly through Windows Terminal. Open the terminal with administrator privileges and run the appropriate command for your setup. Administrative rights remain mandatory for these actions.
Launch the Windows Terminal application as an administrator, then select either the Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt tab.
To install the feature via DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management, a built-in tool for managing Windows images), use the following command:
DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:"Recall"
To remove the feature, execute this command:
DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:"Recall"
To use PowerShell instead, open Windows Terminal as an administrator and switch to the PowerShell tab.
Install the feature with this cmdlet:
Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "Recall"
Remove the feature using this cmdlet:
Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "Recall"
Restart the computer afterward to apply these changes.
Summary
Three main methods exist for uninstalling or reinstalling Windows 11 Recall: Privacy settings, the Windows Features menu, or command-line tools like DISM and PowerShell.
How do I remove Recall from Windows?
Open Windows Search and type optionalfeatures. Select the Windows Features result, locate Recall in the list, and uncheck the box next to it.
Can you get 🪟 Windows 11 without Recall?
Recall functions as an optional feature bundled with Windows 11.
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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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