Quick overview:
Many users underestimate how much personal information their operating system collects in the background. Windows 10 and 11 in particular collect a large amount of telemetry data - such as usage behavior, location or diagnostic information. If you don't consciously click through the settings, you automatically leave a lot of this data to Microsoft.
Image by Pete Linforth on Pixabay
But this is precisely where the key to digital self-determination lies: if you know where the right switches are, you can significantly reduce your data trail. The key areas are in the privacy settings: Camera and microphone access, location history, app permissions and, in particular, telemetry services can be specifically restricted. It is worth going through every option in the Control Panel and in the "Settings" app under the "Privacy & Security" tab - preferably directly after installation.
Switch off telemetry specifically
Microsoft distinguishes between different levels of data collection: "Simple", "Enhanced" and "Full". In the Home version of Windows, this selection can only be influenced to a limited extent. If you really want control, you should consider using the Pro version - it allows more detailed customization.
A great tool for this is O&O ShutUp10++, which reveals many hidden data settings. It lets you customize over 100 system features with a single click—from Cortana to ads in the Start menu. The application is free, portable, and specifically designed for users who want to avoid excessive data collection.
Another tool that has become popular among privacy advocates is W10Privacy. It offers a similar range of options, but is somewhat more technical and is geared more toward experienced users. Both programs clearly demonstrate how many channels Windows uses to transfer data—and how many of them can be disabled.
Stay offline: Use local user accounts
When you set up Windows for the first time, you are almost automatically prompted to create a Microsoft account. The system then links local activities with online identities - from app usage to search histories. If you don't want to do this, you can still take a different route: With a little persistence, you can also set up a local user account.
Such an offline account does not store any data in the cloud, is not connected to a Microsoft service and allows completely local use. This is a particularly useful option for computers that are not constantly connected to the internet or are used for sensitive purposes. It also has advantages in terms of security: Hackers who break into cloud accounts find it more difficult to access local accounts.
If you already have a Microsoft account, you can switch to a local account in Settings under Accounts → Your Information. This won't delete any files—it will simply disable cloud synchronization.
Alternative tools instead of Microsoft services
Even beyond the system's built-in features, there are numerous programs that are less data-intensive than their Microsoft counterparts. For example, if you don’t need Word or Excel, you can use LibreOffice—an open-source office suite that doesn’t collect any usage data. For taking notes, Joplin is a good choice—a Markdown-based editor with end-to-end encryption.
When surfing, we recommend using data-saving browsers such as Mozilla Firefox or Brave. They offer integrated tracker blockers and can be easily adapted to individual needs. If you also work with search engines such as Startpage or DuckDuckGo, you can avoid unnecessary data transfer there too.
When it comes to syncing files, it’s worth checking out tools like Syncthing. This decentralized system allows you to exchange data between devices—without relying on a central cloud. It’s especially useful for those who work with sensitive content, as it offers a high degree of control and security.
Local storage instead of the cloud - even for financial data
One point that is often underestimated is the choice of storage locations. Many programs and apps automatically suggest the cloud as a storage destination - be it OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox. However, sensitive data, especially financial data, does not necessarily belong in the hands of others.
People who are particularly careful with their financial data look for solutions outside of major cloud services. Litecoin wallets, for example, demonstrate how decentralized approaches can also be applied to payment systems. These digital wallets do not store data on central servers, but rather on the user’s own device—a principle that can also be useful in many other digital areas. Learn more about Litecoin wallets here.
Updates, yes - but with caution
Windows updates provide more security, but often also bring new telemetry functions. It is advisable to schedule updates manually and not have them carried out automatically. This allows you to keep control and check in advance which changes are coming.
For Windows Pro and Enterprise, the update time can even be postponed for weeks. Certain updates can also be specifically blocked in the registry or via group policies - especially those that contain new tracking components.
It's also helpful to check the Windows Update MiniTool regularly, as it provides significantly more transparency about available patches than the standard Windows interface.
Digital independence is possible
If you consciously use the possibilities of your operating system, you can achieve a surprisingly high level of privacy under Windows. It does not require a complete disconnection from the Internet, but above all informed decisions and suitable tools.
In the end, it's not just a technical matter, but also a matter of attitude: not every convenient default setting has to be adopted, not every cloud service has to be used. If you take a closer look at the structures, you'll discover a lot of levers - and regain a bit of digital sovereignty.
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