7 Windows Settings You Should Disable Immediately
Windows includes dozens of settings that run in the background without you knowing. Some of them can slow down your system, send data without your consent, or bombard you with notifications. In this article you'll see which settings are worth disabling immediately, so you can have a faster, quieter, and more secure system.
1
Ads in the Start Menu
Windows displays app suggestions and ads in the Start menu, even for programs you haven't installed. These "suggestions" are often unnecessary and make your menu look cluttered. If you want a clean and fast environment, it's better to disable them.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Personalization → Start → Turn off "Show suggestions" and "Show app content"
2
Sending Data to Microsoft
Windows collects information about how you use your computer and sends it to Microsoft in order to "improve your experience." If you prefer to keep your privacy, you can significantly limit this feature.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Privacy & security → Diagnostics & feedback → Select "Required diagnostic data" (the minimum possible)
3
Apps Running in the Background
Many apps continue to run even after you close them, consuming battery, memory, and data. If you don't need these features, you can restrict them to improve system performance.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Apps → Apps & features → Select the app → Background app permissions → Choose "Never"
4
Automatic App Updates
The Microsoft Store automatically updates apps, often without any notification. This can slow down your computer or your connection, especially when you're using other applications. It's better to control when updates happen yourself.
🔧 How to disable it:
Open the Microsoft Store → Select the profile icon at the top right → App settings → Turn off "Update apps automatically"
5
Access to Your Location
Many apps request access to your location, even when it isn't necessary. This allows them to collect data about your movements. If you don't use location-based services, it's better to restrict this feature.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Privacy & security → Location → Turn off "Location service" or choose which apps can have access
6
Visual Effects and Animations
Windows uses animated effects and transparency to look more impressive. However, if your computer is a bit older, these effects can noticeably slow it down. By disabling them, you'll see a significant improvement in speed.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Accessibility → Visual effects → Turn off "Transparency effects" and "Animation effects"
7
App Notifications
Notifications can become annoying, especially when you're trying to focus. Many apps send unnecessary updates, ads, or suggestions. Enable only the ones you truly need.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → System → Notifications → Turn off notifications from apps you don't need, or disable them entirely
⚠️ Important Note
Before disabling any setting, think about whether you actually need it. For example, if you use maps or weather apps, don't turn off location entirely. Make changes gradually and observe how they affect your daily use.
Conclusion
Windows is a powerful operating system, but some default settings don't help with everyday use. With these 7 changes you'll get a faster, cleaner, and more private computer. Take a few minutes to apply them — the difference will be immediate and noticeable!
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