7 Windows Settings You Should Disable Immediately
Windows comes packed with dozens of features and settings that are enabled by default, many of which most users never notice. Some can impact performance, others may collect more data than you're comfortable sharing, while a few simply clutter your experience with unnecessary notifications, recommendations, and background activity. If you want a faster, cleaner, and more private PC, it's worth spending a few minutes reviewing these settings. Below are seven Windows settings that many experienced users disable right after setting up a new computer because they can improve everyday usability, reduce distractions, and give you more control over your system.
1
Ads in the Start Menu
Windows often displays suggested apps and promotional content in the Start menu, including recommendations for software you may have never installed or used. While Microsoft labels these as suggestions, many users see them as advertisements that add unnecessary clutter to the interface. Disabling them creates a cleaner Start menu and helps you focus on the apps and shortcuts that actually matter.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Personalization → Start → Turn off "Show suggestions" and "Show app content"
2
Sending Data to Microsoft
By default, Windows collects diagnostic information and usage data about how you interact with your computer. Microsoft uses this information to improve its products, troubleshoot issues, and develop new features. However, if privacy is a priority for you, it's worth reviewing these settings and limiting the amount of data your device shares whenever possible.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Privacy & Security → Diagnostics & Feedback → Select "Required diagnostic data"
3
Apps Running in the Background
Many Windows apps continue running in the background even when you're not actively using them. While this can help certain apps stay up to date, it can also consume memory, processing power, network bandwidth, and battery life. Reducing background activity can help improve overall system performance, especially on laptops and older PCs with limited resources.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Apps → Apps & features → Select the app → Background app permissions → Choose "Never"
4
Automatic App Updates
Apps installed through the Microsoft Store are updated automatically in the background by default. While this helps keep applications secure and up to date, it can also use system resources and internet bandwidth without you noticing. In some cases, updates may start while you're working, gaming, or using a slower connection. If you prefer to decide when updates are installed, you can disable automatic app updates and manage them manually.
🔧 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 their core functionality doesn't require it. This allows them to collect information about your geographic position and usage habits, which may raise privacy concerns for some users. If you rarely use location-based services such as Maps, Weather, or local recommendations, limiting location access can help reduce unnecessary data sharing and give you greater control over your privacy.
🔧 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 various visual effects, animations, and transparency features to create a modern and polished appearance. While these effects can make the interface feel more attractive, they also consume additional system resources. On older PCs or devices with limited hardware, disabling them can make Windows feel noticeably faster and more responsive during everyday use.
🔧 How to disable it:
Settings → Accessibility → Visual effects → Turn off "Transparency effects" and "Animation effects"
7
App Notifications
Notifications can quickly become a distraction, especially when you're working, studying, or trying to focus on an important task. Many apps send promotional messages, reminders, and updates that provide little real value. Limiting notifications to only the apps you genuinely need can help create a cleaner, less distracting, and more productive Windows experience.
🔧 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 feature, make sure you understand how it affects your daily workflow. Some settings, such as location services or background activity, may be useful for specific apps and features. It's a good idea to make changes gradually and see how your system behaves before disabling additional options.
Conclusion
Windows offers a huge number of customization options, but not all of its default settings are beneficial for every user. By adjusting these seven settings, you can reduce distractions, improve privacy, and potentially boost system performance. The best part is that most of these changes take only a few minutes to apply, yet they can make a noticeable difference in your everyday computing experience.
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