I unfortunately can’t switch to Linux for some applications(like Games) so I was wondering if there are up to date guides for 25h2 to minimize data collection(especially by Window’s new AI applications and Windows Defender)?

We can’t confirm whether these guides are updated to that specific version, but they should work mostly. Here are our official recommendations based on this topic: [image] Windows Overview - Privacy Guides Microsoft Windows is a common operating system which is extremely non-private out…

As Kev says above, the PG overview on Windows does a great job. ChrisTitus has good debloat scripts, but I’m not sure how current it is as I’m on Linux these days. I typically obtain a pro or enterprise Windows license to get access to group policies and other tools. Ultimately, you’ll need to aud…

I highly recommend browsing this forum for posts, comments and info about what you’re looking for. There is a ton of info here already so you just have to research a bit. And after which you can ask any specific follow up questions you may have and I can try answering them.

The title says “hardening” which implies security, but the post says “to minimize data collection” which implies privacy, so just to clarify, are you looking for security hardening (like disabling vbs), for privacy enhancements (like disabling Error Reporting), or both?

[image] _TrustyRocinante: ChrisTitus has good debloat scripts Good? You must be joking. Just look at the source code. Disabling telemetry also changes settings that are completely unrelated to telemetry. For example, some of them are: Autochk, ShowTaskViewButton, LongPathsEnabled, SystemResp…

I’m confused why that is the fault of the guy who made the script as opposed to the people who made the convoluted, mashed together operating system. Windows has so much telemetry baked into basic features like clipboard, typing, updates, security, and more that there’s simply no way to avoid it wit…

[image] DutchBaby: I’m confused why that is the fault of the guy who made the script as opposed to the people who made the convoluted, mashed together operating system. Can you prove that the ones I listed are used to collect telemetry? By the way, ShowTaskViewButton is just a button for the …

You do know that most Windows games run on Linux nowadays thanks to Valve’s efforts? It used to be the case that you had to stop playing games if you wanted a free desktop, but this is longer the case. The main exception is competitive games with invasive anti-cheats (rootkits), which you should ref…

[image] anon59300808: ShowTaskViewButton I’m pretty sure this one is toggleable in the UI of CTT’s tool and not inherent to “Disable telemetry”. Correct me if I’m wrong, though.

[image] HackOrSwim: I’m pretty sure this one is toggleable in the UI of CTT’s tool Yes, but not only there. Also in “Disable Telemetry” and “Set Display for Performance.”

Surprised that no one recommended the community wiki. Isn’t people aware about them? [image] Minimizing Windows 11 Data Collection booksCommunity Wiki information_source Before you begin reading Keep in mind that this guide is a work-in-progress. Information…

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Windows 11 Hardening Guides?

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Nexus (Nexus235) November 3, 2025, 3:17am 16

This could help.

It’s probably exactly what you’re looking for.

Best regards

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