The Best Way to Disable Cortana in Windows 10

For those with privacy, RAM concerns

In 2015, Microsoft released the final version of Windows 10. It came with many advantages over previous operating systems as well as a pre-installed virtual assistant.

Many users were not happy about having this digital assistant called Cortana. Although it can perform many tasks such as setting reminders, finding answers to questions, and locating a file on your computer, it also has many drawbacks.

The main concerns and complaints were and still are about privacy issues, as Microsoft collects personal data from Cortana.

Privacy Concerns

InMicrosoft’s own words, Cortana provides personalized experiences and smart features. It collects data to improve, personalize, and make Cortana more useful.

If you have set up Cortana then you are probably already aware that it is always collecting your personal data and listening to you. The types of data it collects include:

In addition to privacy concerns, Cortana can sometimes take up many system resources, such asCPUandRAM.

This article will explain how to disable Cortana in Windows 10 for those who don’t want to share their personal information with Microsoft.

Things You Should Know Before Disabling Cortana

Cortana used to be disabled by toggling a switch whenWindows 10was first released. However, turning it off in this manner broke Windows search. Microsoft addressed this issue so the search will not break.

But they also made it more difficult than it was before. However, you willlose some functionalitywhen you disable Cortana in Windows 10, such as personalized news and reminders.

Below are a few ways to disable Cortana to stop it from working.However, you will not be able to delete it permanently.

Disable Cortana in Windows 10 Using Local Group Policy

Cortana can be disabled using Group Policy for those running any version of Windows 10 except the Home version. Group Policy is a feature that enables users to control Windows accounts for individual or multiple machines.

Disable Cortana in Windows 10 Home

Users who have Windows 10 Home can use the Registry Editor tool to disable Cortana. Before making changes to your registry,set up a system restore point.

A system restore point is like an undo button in case something goes wrong or breaks.

Before confirming your restore point, be sure to read the notices below:

If for any reason your Restore failed, open System Restore again and choose a different Restore Point.

Disable Cortana Using the Registry Editor

You are now ready to disable Cortana in Windows 10 using the Registry Editor by following the steps below:

If you decide at some point that you want to use Cortana again, repeat the steps above, change the Value Data to1, and then restart your computer.

David has a background in small business and lives in Australia. He is a WordPress and Ubuntu Developer who enjoys design, CSS and tech tool integration.Read David’s Full Bio

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The Best Way to Disable Cortana in Windows 10#

Privacy Concerns#

Things You Should Know Before Disabling Cortana#

Disable Cortana in Windows 10 Using Local Group Policy#

Disable Cortana in Windows 10 Home#

Disable Cortana Using the Registry Editor#

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