Windows operating systems have long been criticised for their horrible data collection practices. And even when people disable telemetry during installation, Microsoft still continues to gather usage information, browsing history, typing patterns, and app behaviour, etc. The worst part of all though, is that everything is hidden all over the place, making it hard to track down every single thing you need to disable. But in this guide will show you how to disable all of the Spyware on Windows 11 from a single location that won't take you hours.

Takeaways:

  1. This guide explains how ShutUp10+ works, which options are most important, and how to use it safely.
  2. Learn how to disable all of the Spyware hidden inside Windows 11.

What is ShutUp10+ and What Does it do?

ShutUp10+ simplifies Windows’ ridiculous privacy settings into simple toggle switches that are all in one single location. Instead of searching through Control Panel, Settings, or registry entries, you can manage everything from one dashboard. The tool deals with telemetry, app permissions, advertising, search integration, synchronisation, and a ton of other things.

It also doesn't install background services. Instead, it adjusts system settings instantly and doesn't need to be installed. It will also create a system restore point before applying changes (if you accept it). That way, you can revert if a setting conflicts with your workflow.

How to Disable All Windows 11 Spyware. (Stop Windows Spying on you)

When you first open the tool, you will see a long list of options, some of which are green and some of which are red. Green means the spyware feature is set to blocked. Red means it hasn't yet been blocked. Over on the right side, you will also see a few different suggestions as well:

  • Yes means that you should block it.
  • No means that you probably shouldn't because you might lose key functionalities.
  • Limited means basically means that you might find disabling the feature annoying. Turning off notifications, for example.

However, you can do whatever you like with all of these options.

The first time you attempt to toggle an option it will also ask if you want to make a Restore Point. Which we highly suggest you do as you can quickly and easily revert back if something weird happens.

If you are unsure what each option does, you can click on the text, and it will tell you exactly what it does. This is honestly one of the best features of the tool and explains things that Microsoft just glazes over. Below are a few key sections you want to pay close attention to, as they are the most important ones to disable.

How to Disable All Windows 11 Spyware

Advertising and Telemetry

  • Disable and reset the advertising ID. Prevents Microsoft from assigning a unique identifier used to deliver targeted ads across apps and services.
  • Stop sending diagnostic data. This prevents Windows from transmitting large amounts of behavioural information back to Microsoft.
  • Disable timeline and suggestions. Blocks activity tracking and unwanted content in the start menu or lock screen.

Typing, Clipboard, and Suggestions

  • Disable transmission of typing data. Stops Windows from collecting keystroke patterns.
  • Block clipboard history. Prevents storage of copied text, which can include sensitive items like passwords.
  • Remove tips, tricks, and suggestions. Eliminates unnecessary prompts in the interface.

App Permissions

  • Block app access to personal data, location, camera, and microphone. Essential if you do not need features such as video conferencing or location tracking.
  • Be cautious: disabling camera or microphone globally will break apps that require them.
  • Prevent apps from reading diagnostics, email, call history, or messages.

Browser Privacy (Microsoft Edge)

  • Disable tracking and personalised ads.
  • Block saving of payment details and autofill data.
  • Remove the persistent Microsoft account sign-in prompts.
  • Turn off search suggestions, smart screen filters, and sidebar content.

Synchronisation and Cloud Integration

  • Disable synchronisation of settings across devices. This avoids unintended changes when using multiple PCs.
  • Turn off Cortana, Copilot, and other AI assistants.
  • Block Windows Spotlight, Explorer ads, and OneDrive advertising integration.

Search and AI Integration

  • Remove Bing integration from Windows search.
  • Disable AI-powered search suggestions.

Other Options

  • Stop automatic installation of suggested Store apps.
  • Disable feedback reminders.
  • Prevent Windows from auto-enabling some features after updates.

Don't go overboard is my Advice

  • Use the recommended settings option if you want a balance between privacy and functionality.
  • The apply all settings option locks down Windows completely but can break services like Teams or Zoom.
  • Export your configuration after customising. If a Windows update resets your preferences, you can re-import your saved settings instantly.
  • Choose between applying changes per user or system-wide. For shared devices, applying to all users is usually best.