The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Short answer: Windows always sends a minimum level of diagnostic data that Microsoft calls Required diagnostic data. You can choose whether to add Optional diagnostic data, which may include more detail about device use, browsing, apps, errors and crash memory. In Windows Settings you can select Required only, inspect available records with Diagnostic Data Viewer and request deletion of device diagnostic data. Microsoft-account activity, app permissions, advertising personalization and speech or typing choices are separate controls, so changing the diagnostic setting does not control all data associated with Windows.
The labels and available switches depend on your Windows release and whether a work or school administrator manages the device. The steps below identify Windows 11 and Windows 10 paths where they differ.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What Windows diagnostic data means
Microsoft defines diagnostic data as information Windows sends to help keep the operating system reliable, secure and working correctly. The diagnostic choice has two levels:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →| Choice | What Microsoft says it contains | What Microsoft says it is used for |
|---|---|---|
| Required diagnostic data | Minimum information about the device, its settings and capabilities, and whether it is operating properly. This level is sent even when Optional data is not selected. | Keeping Windows secure and up to date, troubleshooting issues and improving Windows. |
| Required plus Optional diagnostic data | Everything in Required, plus additional detail about device configuration and health, connectivity, product and service use and performance, software setup and inventory, browsing history, inking, typing and speech utterances, enhanced error reports and crash-dump memory contents. | Microsoft says the additional detail can help identify and fix problems more quickly and improve Windows and related products and services. |
Optional categories are documented examples, not a promise that every item is collected from every computer. Microsoft says some optional information is sampled from only a small percentage of devices and that the data list can change. A crash dump can contain parts of a file that was in use when a crash occurred, so it is possible for memory captured for troubleshooting to include unintended content. See Microsoft’s current overview of Diagnostics, feedback, and privacy in Windows and the release-specific Optional diagnostic data for Windows 11 and Windows 10.
#1 Best Overall
- [Ultra-Lightweight Ear Buds Designed for Small Ears] Each earbud weighs only 3.7g and features a compact, ergonomic in-ear design made especially for small ears. Secure, low-profile, and comfortable for workouts, all-day wear or overnight sleeping.The ultra-slim profile sits flush in your ear with no hard edges poking or rubbing, so you can even sleep on your side without discomfort.
- [Immersive Stereo Sound with TOZO OrigX Technology] TOZO OrigX tuning delivers clear vocals, balanced mids, and natural stereo sound for music, podcasts, and videos.
- [Long Battery Life for Daily Use] Get up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 32 hours total using the charging case—ideal for workdays, commuting, and extended listening sessions.
- [Bluetooth 5.3 & Stable Connection] Bluetooth 5.3 provides fast pairing, stable wireless performance, and reduced dropouts as you move around home or office.
- [Deep Bass with Clear Vocals] High-performance drivers produce punchy bass while keeping vocals clean and detailed for everyday listening.
Choosing Required only does not make Windows send no data. It selects the minimum diagnostic level Microsoft provides for consumer Windows. Microsoft states: “Regardless of whether you choose to send Optional diagnostic data, your device will be just as secure and will operate normally.” That statement describes Microsoft’s position; it does not mean other Windows features, apps or an account stop processing information.
How to send only Required diagnostic data
Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Select Privacy & security.
- Open Diagnostics & feedback.
- Under Diagnostic data, choose the available option that sends only Required diagnostic data. The wording can vary slightly by release.
Windows 10
- Open Settings.
- Select Privacy.
- Open Diagnostics & feedback.
- Under Diagnostic data, select the option for Required data only.
If the control is unavailable, greyed out or marked as managed by an organization, a workplace or school policy is enforcing the setting. An administrator may have chosen a higher level or restricted changes; a standard user cannot necessarily override that policy. Microsoft documents the current setting behavior in its Windows diagnostics and privacy guidance.
See what Windows has made available with Diagnostic Data Viewer
Diagnostic Data Viewer lets you inspect diagnostic records available while the viewer is running. It is a viewing tool, not a complete historical archive: it does not show every diagnostic item Windows has ever sent or retained.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
- On Windows 11, go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback. On Windows 10, go to Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback.
- Turn on the option to view diagnostic data, then select Open Diagnostic Data Viewer (or install it if Windows presents that option).
- Use the viewer’s categories and search controls to examine records while collection for the viewer is enabled.
When you no longer need the viewer, you can turn its collection option off. The viewer’s contents should not be treated as a complete account of all Windows, Microsoft-account or third-party app processing.
Rank #2
- 【IP68 Waterproof Multifunctinal Smart Watch】Torjalph fitness activity tracker smart watch is IP68 waterproof technology ,you can wear it when swimming,handwashing,it's rain-proof which means that you perform multiple exercise modes outside without worrying about sweat or rain corroding your fitness smart watch,and this watch equipped with a 230 mAh large capacity battery magnetic charging ,and this sports activity tracker watch can be used 5-7 days If fully charged.
- 【Larger 1.83'' Full Screen Watch & Multi-dial Selection】1.83 inch full HD color touch screen smart watch for men / women provides excellent 240*284 resolution image quality ,This Bluetooth smart watch offers a better touch experience and remarkable immersion and ,more than 200 watch faces for you to choose from App"Da Fit ", you can change the dial style according to your mood to wear keeping the world on your wrist
- 【Accurate Activity Tracker Smart Watch 】sports watch activity tracker uses sweat and dust resistant breathable silicone strap, our Fitness Tracker Smart Watch for Android iOS Phones supports 12 sports modes,walking,running,bicycle,swimming,badminton,basketball,football,rope skipping. This bluetooth calls smart watch for men women is lightweight and stylish, bringing more convenient and relaxing sports experience while also providing more protection.
- 【Your 24 Hour Personal Daily Health Monitor】Fitness watch for women men full touch screen IP67 waterproof bluetooth smartwatch for Android iOS Phones with heart rate blood pressure monitor multifunction Andriod smart watch with steps counter sleep monitor sports fitness watch, monitoring blood oxygen saturation allows you to understand your physical condition in real time to track fitness progress ,to know your health status in time.
- 【More Functions Bluetooth Call Smart Watch】This fitness activity smart watch full screen for iPhone and Android phones includes a bunch of new features including:The bluetooth smart watch can hang up the phone, receive and display WhatsAPP /Text /Facebook /Twitter /Messenger reminder.Support sedentary reminder, alarm clock, stopwatch, timer,weather information,music control, remote camera control compatible with Android 5.0 and above or iOS 9.0 and above smartphones.
Delete device diagnostic data—and understand what remains
The same Diagnostics & feedback page includes Delete diagnostic data. This action requests deletion of diagnostic data associated with that Windows device. It does not delete activity associated with your Microsoft account, and it does not stop new diagnostic data from being sent in the future. After deleting, Required diagnostic data continues unless a different control or organization policy changes the level.
For account-associated records, use Microsoft’s separate privacy dashboard. The dashboard and the device deletion button have different scopes, so clearing one does not imply that the other has been cleared.
Manage Microsoft-account activity separately
The privacy dashboard is the place to review or manage certain activity tied to your Microsoft account, along with available advertising settings. Its activity view is limited to data associated with that account; it is not a complete log of everything Windows or every app has processed. Entries can take a few days to appear, and the date shown is the date Microsoft received the information rather than necessarily the date you performed the action.
Recommended Free Tools
Microsoft describes deletion of apps-and-services activity by day. To review it, sign in to the privacy dashboard and open the relevant activity category. For details about that category and its deletion behavior, see Microsoft’s Apps and services activity on the privacy dashboard page. Deleting an account entry there does not change the Required/Optional diagnostic setting on a Windows device.
Rank #3
- [Low Noise High Fidelity] New bee guitar cord with 22AWG oxygen-free-copper center conductors provides enhanced signal transfer, the PVC insulation material and the high-density stranded copper double shield provide noise rejection for quiet operation
- [Ideal for Choice] New bee 1/4 straight and right angle metal connectors, ensures a secure connection in any instrument, pedal, or amp jack. L shape great fro on stage guitar stands
- [Wide Compatible] Suitable for mixer, power amplifier, microphone, effector, decoder, equalizer, electoronic organ, electric guitar, electric bass and other electronic equipments. Widely used in the installation of smart home, karaoke speaker, professional stage audio, etc
- [Easy Disassemble] Making incidental repairs quick and easy! Very nice, flexible cable
- [Dont Hesite to Order] 24 hours customer services and professional technology team are standing by
Control what installed apps can access
App permissions govern access to resources such as location, camera, microphone, contacts and calendar. They are separate from Windows diagnostic data: an app can have permission to use a camera even when you send only Required diagnostics, and changing diagnostics does not automatically revoke that permission.
- On Windows 11, open Settings > Privacy & security, then choose the resource (for example, Location, Camera or Microphone).
- On Windows 10, open Settings > Privacy, then choose the corresponding resource.
- Review the device-wide switch and the list of apps, and allow or block access according to what each app needs.
Some desktop applications do not use the same Store-app permission mechanism, so read the individual app’s own settings and privacy information when a program is not listed. Microsoft’s Windows privacy settings that apps use explains the scopes and exceptions.
App diagnostics is another switch
Windows also has an App diagnostics permission. Microsoft says it can make limited information about running apps available, including app and package names, the user account and memory use. You can allow or block individual apps in the app-diagnostics section of Windows privacy settings. This setting does not replace the diagnostic-data choice and does not give an app access to every file or account record.
Reduce personalization and advertising signals
Personalized offers
On current Windows 11 releases, open Settings > Privacy & security > Recommendations & offers. Microsoft says Personalized offers can use device information and Windows diagnostic data together with account information and data from other Microsoft products and services. Turn the option off if you do not want Windows to use that combination for the offers covered by the setting. The exact availability can vary by release.
Rank #4
- Digital Family Calendar: BSIMB digital calendar wall touch screen puts an end to your chaotic life. Designed for busy families, the digital calendar keeps you organised and in step with your family. Assign different colours and tasks to each family member to make family scheduling easier and more intuitive.
- Easy Setup and Auto-Sync: Plug in, connect to WLAN and auto-syn your electric calendar in minutes. Digital wall calendar compatible with Google calendar, iCloud calendar, Outlook calendar, Cozi calendar and Yahoo calendar. Add events directly on the device or through the ecalendar app. Electronic calendar stays current whether you're at work or traveling—no manual updates needed.
- All-In-One Home Assistant: Smart calendar builds habits and encourage independence with personalised chores. Display daily meal plan to reduce the daily ‘What's for dinner?’ stress. To-do lists keep track of everything you want. Turning chores into valuable achievements with stars and rewards, making life easier and more enjoyable.
- Manage Anytime Anywhere: BSIMB electronic calendar for family stay connected with the powerful ecalendar app. Access and manage your digital wall calendar anytime, anywhere with free features like stars & rewards, photo screensaver, chore charts, meals plans, to-do lists etc. Electronic planner paid features like Magic Import tailor advanced tools for users with special needs.
- Stay in Touch with Loved Ones: Share photos or videos from your phone to electronic wall calendar with app, instantly update your life moment, and keep in touch with your family, especially those who are far away; you can also surprise your smart calendar digital wall by sending him a wish card; it's also great for keeping tech-illiterate elders in touch with the youngsters.
Advertising ID
The same area contains the Advertising ID control. This per-user identifier can be used by apps and advertising networks that support it to personalize ads. Turning it off does not reduce the number of ads you see; it removes or limits that identifier for the uses covered by the setting. It also does not control website cookies, other forms of interest-based advertising or the independent advertising practices of third-party products. Microsoft describes these limits in its Privacy settings for Recommendations & offers in Windows 11.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Review speech, voice activation, typing and inking choices
Speech recognition, voice activation, inking and typing have feature-specific controls. Microsoft says contributing voice clips to improve the service is optional. The relevant options can change as Windows features evolve, so read the description beside each switch before changing it. Disabling one contribution or personalization option should not be described as preventing every form of speech or input processing: an enabled voice feature may still process what it needs to provide that feature.
For the current choices, open Microsoft’s Speech, voice activation, inking, typing, and privacy guidance and follow the Windows Settings link for your release. Optional diagnostic documentation also lists inking, typing and speech utterance data among possible categories, which is why these controls should be considered alongside—not substituted for—the Diagnostics & feedback setting.
Choose the right control for the data you mean
Use this decision guide before changing settings:
- Concerned about information sent from the device for reliability and troubleshooting? Open Diagnostics & feedback and select Required only.
- Want to inspect or clear device diagnostic records? Use Diagnostic Data Viewer and Delete diagnostic data on that same page.
- Looking for searches, app-and-service activity or other account-linked entries? Use the Microsoft privacy dashboard; the Windows deletion button does not cover them.
- Want to stop an app using the camera, microphone, location or contacts? Change that resource’s app permission in Windows Privacy settings.
- Trying to change personalized offers or the identifier used by supporting ad networks? Open Recommendations & offers in Windows 11 and adjust Personalized offers or Advertising ID.
- Trying to limit voice clips, voice activation, typing or inking contributions? Review the dedicated speech and input settings, because they have scopes different from diagnostics.
These controls complement one another rather than forming a single “private mode.” Windows consumer settings do not provide a supported switch for sending zero data, and each action has the scope described beside it.
Version, support and organization caveats
Microsoft’s diagnostic categories are version-specific. The Microsoft Learn list covers applicable Windows 11 and Windows 10 releases, and Microsoft notes that individual data items can change. Follow the path for the release installed on your computer rather than relying on an old Windows 10 screenshot when using Windows 11.
Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. A Windows 10 installation may still show the documented privacy controls, but it no longer receives normal product support after that date. Windows 11 labels and feature availability can also differ by update, edition, region and account state.
On a work- or school-managed computer, policy can set diagnostic levels, app permissions or other privacy choices. If a message says an option is managed by your organization, contact that administrator; changing local settings or deleting local records will not override the policy.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11A practical Windows privacy checkup
- Record your Windows version by opening Settings > System > About (Windows 11) or Settings > System > About (Windows 10), then use the matching privacy path.
- Set Diagnostics & feedback to Required only if you do not want Optional categories.
- Open Diagnostic Data Viewer briefly to understand the records available on the device, then disable viewer collection if you do not need it.
- Use Delete diagnostic data when you want to request removal of device diagnostic data, remembering that future Required data can still be sent.
- Sign in to the privacy dashboard to review account-associated activity separately.
- Audit camera, microphone, location, contacts, calendar and App diagnostics permissions for apps you no longer use.
- In Windows 11, review Recommendations & offers, Personalized offers and Advertising ID.
- Check speech, voice activation, inking and typing choices for the features you actually use.
- If a switch is unavailable or organization-managed, ask the administrator what policy applies.
The result is a set of targeted choices: Required diagnostics for core Windows operation, account controls for account-linked activity, permissions for app access, and separate personalization and input settings. Treating them as separate scopes is the key to knowing what a change will—and will not—do.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
