Understanding Windows 11 Data Collection
Windows 11 includes a feature that gathers typing samples, ink strokes, and custom dictionary entries to improve keyboard and handwriting suggestions. Although the data is anonymized, users who prioritize privacy may wish to prevent any transmission to Microsoft servers.
Why Opt Out?
Disabling the feature stops:
- Transmission of keystrokes and handwriting strokes.
- Syncing of personalized word lists across devices.
- Collection of diagnostic telemetry linked to user input.
Resulting benefits include reduced data exposure and a tighter control over personal content.
Step‑by‑Step: Turning Off Inking & Typing Personalization
Via Settings Menu
1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy & Security.
3. Click Inking & typing personalization (or Inking & typing depending on build).
4. Find the toggle labeled Improve inking & typing recognition and switch it to Off.
Via Diagnostics & Feedback
Some editions place the option under a different path:
- Settings –> Privacy & Security –> Diagnostics & Feedback.
- Locate the Improve inking and typing setting and turn it off.
Clearing the Custom Word List
When the feature is disabled, a local copy of the custom dictionary may persist. To clear it:
- Open the Settings app again.
- Go to Privacy & Security –> Inking & typing personalization.
- Click Clear next to the custom word list entry.
Additional Privacy Enhancements
- Online Speech Recognition – Disable under Speech settings if voice input data should not be sent.
- Delete diagnostic data – Under Diagnostics & Feedback, select Delete diagnostic data to remove previously collected logs.
Enterprise Deployment Options
Administrators can enforce the setting across multiple devices via Group Policy or the registry:
- Group Policy: Navigate to Computer Configuration –> Administrative Templates –> Windows Components –> Personalization. Set Disable Inking & typing to Enabled.
- Registry: Edit HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInputPersonalization and set DisablePersonalization to 1.
Conclusion
By following the steps above, users can effectively stop Windows 11 from sending typing and inking data to Microsoft. This simple adjustment preserves privacy without sacrificing essential system functionality, while also allowing enterprise environments to apply consistent policies across devices.
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