You can remove every AI app Microsoft has quietly installed on Windows 11 — Copilot, Clipchamp, Recall, and more — using Winhance, a free open-source tool I built specifically for this. Run a single PowerShell command to install it, check the AI apps you want gone, and enable continuous removal to block Windows Update from sneaking them back. Here’s exactly how.

Applies to: Windows 11 (23H2, 24H2, 25H2) | Last updated: April 2, 2026

Key Takeaways

• Windows 11 now ships with at least 7 AI-powered apps installed or pre-loaded, including Copilot, Clipchamp, and AI features baked into Paint and Notepad.
• Winhance can remove all of them at once — select the apps you want gone, hit apply, and they’re uninstalled in seconds.
• Continuous removal keeps them off permanently — Winhance creates scheduled tasks that automatically re-remove any AI app that Windows Update tries to reinstall.
• You can proactively block apps you don’t even have yet — select apps like Recall before they appear on your system, and Winhance will prevent them from ever installing.
• If you reinstall an app through Winhance later, it’s smart enough to remove that app from the continuous removal list so it won’t get deleted again.

Quick Steps

1. Open PowerShell and run irm winhance.net | iex to install Winhance.
2. Open the Application Management section in Winhance.
3. Select the AI apps you want to remove (Copilot, Clipchamp, Paint, Notepad, Edge, Recall, etc.).
4. Check “Save removal scripts to ensure continuous removal” to keep them off permanently.
5. Click Apply to remove the selected apps.
6. Optionally, go to External Software in Winhance to install replacements like Notepad++.

Which AI Apps Does Windows 11 Install?

Microsoft has been aggressively pushing AI into Windows 11 over the past year. What started with Copilot has expanded into a full suite of AI-powered apps that appear on your system — often without you asking for them. Here’s what’s currently being installed or pre-loaded on Windows 11 machines.

• Microsoft Copilot — The standalone AI assistant app. It pins itself to the taskbar and Start menu after feature updates.
• Microsoft 365 Copilot — A separate app from regular Copilot, tied to the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
• Clipchamp — Microsoft’s AI-powered video editor, pre-installed on all Windows 11 systems.
• Paint — The classic app now has Copilot AI image generation features baked in.
• Notepad — Even Notepad now includes Copilot AI text rewriting capabilities.
• Microsoft Edge — Packed with Copilot AI features throughout the browser.
• Recall — Available on Copilot+ PCs, this app takes continuous screenshots of everything you do and uses AI to make it searchable.

The problem isn’t just that these apps exist — it’s that Windows Update regularly reinstalls them even after you remove them manually. That’s the exact problem I built Winhance to solve.

How to Install Winhance

Winhance is free, open-source, and installs with a single PowerShell command. There’s no installer wizard, no bundled software, and no account required. You can also choose a portable version if you prefer not to install anything.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
2. Paste the following command and press Enter:

irm "https://get.winhance.net" | iex

1. The installer will ask if you want a normal install or portable install. Choose whichever you prefer — both work the same way.
2. Once installed, Winhance opens automatically and you’re ready to start removing apps.

Tip: If you’ve never used Winhance before, check out my full Winhance guide for a complete overview of everything it can do beyond just removing AI apps.

How to Remove AI Apps with Winhance

Once Winhance is open, removing AI apps takes about 30 seconds. The interface groups removable apps into clear categories, so you can pick exactly what you want gone.

1. In Winhance, navigate to the Application Management section.
2. You’ll see a list of installed Microsoft apps, including all the AI-powered ones. Select the ones you want to remove:
   • Clipchamp
   • Microsoft Copilot
   • Microsoft 365 Copilot
   • Notepad (AI version)
   • Paint (AI version)
   • Microsoft Edge
   • Recall (Copilot+ PCs only)
3. Click Apply to remove all selected apps at once.

One thing I specifically designed into Winhance: you can select apps that aren’t currently installed on your system. This is useful for apps like Recall that may not be on your PC yet but could appear after a future Windows Update. By selecting them now, you’re telling Winhance to block them proactively.

If you want to disable Copilot without fully uninstalling it, you can do that through Windows settings instead. But if you want it completely gone, Winhance is the fastest option.

How to Keep AI Apps Off Your PC Permanently

This is the feature that makes Winhance different from manually uninstalling apps. Windows Update has a habit of reinstalling apps you’ve already removed — especially Copilot. The continuous removal feature stops that from happening.

Before you click Apply, check the box labeled “Save removal scripts to ensure continuous removal”. This tells Winhance to create scheduled tasks in Windows Task Scheduler that monitor for reinstalled apps. If Windows Update sneaks an app back onto your system, the scheduled task detects it and removes it again automatically.

I tested this on camera to prove it works. I manually reinstalled Copilot through the Microsoft Store after it had been removed by Winhance. After a restart, the continuous removal script detected the unauthorized reinstall and removed Copilot again within about 15 seconds. No manual intervention needed.

Tip: The continuous removal scripts only target apps that were removed through Winhance. If you later decide you want an app back and install it through Winhance’s External Software section, the tool automatically updates the removal list so it won’t delete that app again.

This smart behavior is important. If you install an app through Winhance that was previously removed, Winhance recognizes it as an intentional install and removes it from the continuous removal list. It only catches reinstalls that happen outside of Winhance — like when Windows Update puts Copilot back without your permission.

How to Replace Removed Apps

After removing AI-heavy apps like Notepad and Paint, you’ll probably want replacements. Winhance has a built-in External Software section that lets you install popular alternatives directly — no need to hunt for download links.

For example, after removing the AI version of Notepad, you can install Notepad++ straight from Winhance. It’s a far more capable text editor without any AI features forced on you.

Some popular replacements available through Winhance’s External Software section:

• Notepad++ — Lightweight, powerful text editor with syntax highlighting and tabs.
• Alternative browsers — Replace Microsoft Edge with your preferred browser.
• Classic Paint alternatives — If you used Paint for basic image editing, lightweight alternatives are available without the AI overhead.

Remember: any app you install through Winhance is automatically excluded from the continuous removal list. So you don’t need to worry about Winhance fighting against itself.

Why Microsoft Keeps Reinstalling AI Apps

If you’re wondering why you need a tool like Winhance in the first place — it’s because Microsoft treats AI app removal as temporary. Every major Windows Update can reset your app selections and reinstall things you’ve already removed. This is by design, not a bug.

Microsoft’s business strategy increasingly relies on AI integration across Windows. Copilot, Recall, and the AI features in everyday apps like Paint and Notepad are central to that strategy. When you remove them, Windows Update sees them as “missing components” and reinstalls them during the next feature update.

That’s exactly why I added the continuous removal feature to Winhance. A one-time uninstall isn’t enough anymore. You need something actively watching for unauthorized reinstalls and cleaning them up automatically. The scheduled tasks Winhance creates run with minimal system resources and only activate when needed.

What About Copilot+ PCs and Recall?

If you have a Copilot+ PC (a device with an NPU chip meeting Microsoft’s requirements), you may also have Recall installed or queued for installation. Recall continuously takes screenshots of everything on your screen and uses AI to make that history searchable.

Even if Recall isn’t on your system yet, you can select it in Winhance and enable continuous removal. This ensures that if a future Windows Update tries to install Recall, it gets blocked immediately. This proactive approach is the safest way to handle apps you don’t want anywhere near your PC.

For standard Windows 11 PCs without an NPU, Recall won’t install on its own. But selecting it in Winhance as a precaution costs nothing and takes one extra checkbox.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Winhance safe to use?

Yes. Winhance is open-source, meaning anyone can inspect the code on GitHub. I built it as a transparent tool for the Windows community. It doesn’t modify system files or break Windows Update — it only removes apps and creates standard scheduled tasks in Task Scheduler.

Will removing these apps break anything in Windows 11?

No. All the AI apps listed here are standalone applications, not core Windows components. Removing Copilot, Clipchamp, or the AI features in Paint and Notepad does not affect system stability. Windows 11 continues to function normally without them.

Can I get the apps back after removing them?

Absolutely. If you change your mind, you can reinstall any removed app through Winhance’s External Software section or through the Microsoft Store. If you install an app through Winhance, it automatically removes that app from the continuous removal list so it won’t be deleted again.

Does the continuous removal feature use a lot of system resources?

No. The continuous removal scripts run as lightweight scheduled tasks in Windows Task Scheduler. They only activate when triggered (such as after a Windows Update) and use negligible CPU and memory. You won’t notice any performance impact.

Do I need to run Winhance as administrator?

Yes. Since Winhance removes system-installed apps and creates scheduled tasks, it requires administrator privileges. The PowerShell install command (irm winhance.net | iex) should be run in an elevated (admin) PowerShell window.

This post How to Remove AI Apps from Windows 11 (Copilot, Recall, and More) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To fix the blue screen of death (BSOD) in Windows 10 or 11, start by identifying what changed recently — new hardware, software, or driver updates are the most common causes. Then work through driver rollbacks, RAM testing, disk health checks, and system file repair to resolve the issue.

Applies to: Windows 10 (22H2) and Windows 11 (23H2, 24H2, 25H2) | Last updated: March 31, 2026

Key Takeaways

• Drivers cause 70% of all blue screens — graphics and network drivers are the most common culprits
• Most BSODs are fixable without replacing hardware — driver rollbacks, system file repair, and Windows updates resolve the vast majority of cases
• Use BlueScreenView (free) to read your crash dump and identify the exact driver or process that caused the crash
• Work through fixes in order: undo recent changes, fix drivers, test RAM, check disk health, repair system files, Safe Mode, clean install
• If BSODs persist after a clean install, you are looking at faulty hardware — RAM, SSD/HDD, GPU, or motherboard

Quick Steps:

1. Undo any recent hardware or software changes
2. Roll back or update problematic drivers in Device Manager
3. Test your RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86
4. Check disk health with Check Disk and manufacturer tools
5. Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth then sfc /scannow to repair corrupt system files
6. Boot into Safe Mode or use System Restore if Windows won’t start normally
7. Clean install Windows as a last resort

What Causes the Blue Screen of Death in Windows?

A blue screen of death (BSOD) means Windows encountered a critical error that prevents it from running safely. Rather than risk corrupting your files, Windows stops everything and displays an error screen with a stop code that identifies the problem. On newer versions of Windows 11 (24H2 and later), this screen appears black instead of blue, but the troubleshooting process is identical.

I spent over 10 years fixing blue screens in my computer repair shop, and the good news is that 90% of them are caused by the same few things. Here is the breakdown of the most common causes:

• Drivers (70% of all BSODs) — Bad, outdated, or recently updated drivers, especially graphics and network drivers. Common stop codes: IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL
• RAM/Memory (15%) — Faulty, failing, or incompatible RAM sticks you might not know about. Common stop codes: PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA, KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE
• Disk/Storage (10%) — Failing hard drive or SSD with bad sectors or file system corruption. Common stop codes: KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR, CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED
• Software (5%) — Antivirus conflicts, bad Windows updates, unstable overclocks, or software that corrupts system files. Common stop codes: SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION, DPC_WATCHDOG_VIOLATION

Despite the name, a blue screen of death usually does not mean your computer is dying. In most cases, it is a software issue that is completely fixable.

How to Identify What Caused Your Blue Screen

Windows saves a crash dump file every time a blue screen occurs, and a free tool called BlueScreenView by NirSoft can read these dumps and tell you exactly what went wrong. Download the zip file from the official NirSoft page, extract it, and launch the application.

BlueScreenView displays a list of every blue screen your computer has experienced. The two most important columns are the Bug Check String (the stop code, like CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED) and the Caused By Driver column, which identifies the exact driver or executable that failed critically.

With this information, you can search for the specific stop code or driver name online, or ask an AI assistant to help you troubleshoot. But if you would rather skip the crash dump analysis, the fixes below are organized from most common to least common cause and will work regardless of your specific stop code.

Fix 1: Undo Recent Hardware or Software Changes

In my computer repair shop, the first question I always asked customers was: what changed recently? This single question solved the majority of blue screen cases because the answer almost always points directly to the cause.

New hardware: If you recently installed a new graphics card, RAM, SSD, hard drive, or even a USB peripheral and the blue screens started right after, remove or disconnect what you added and boot up again. If the blue screens stop, the hardware is either faulty, incompatible with your system, or was not installed properly. Try reinstalling it once more — if the blue screens return, replace it or return it.

New software: If you recently installed a new program, antivirus, VPN, or overclocking utility and the blue screens began right after, uninstall that software and see if the problem goes away.

Windows Update: If the blue screens started after a Windows update, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates and remove the most recent update. This is more common than most people think — bad Windows updates have caused widespread blue screen issues multiple times, including as recently as January 2026.

This is usually the quickest and easiest fix, and it normally does not require any special tools.

Fix 2: Roll Back or Update Problematic Drivers

Drivers account for nearly 70% of all blue screens in Windows, making them the single most common cause. Graphics drivers and network drivers are the most frequent culprits, but any driver that was recently updated or corrupted can trigger a BSOD.

To troubleshoot drivers, right-click the Start button and open Device Manager. Here you can see every driver category — display adapters (GPU), network adapters, disk drives, and more.

If you know or suspect which driver is causing the issue (BlueScreenView can tell you this), navigate to that device in Device Manager, right-click it, select Properties, go to the Driver tab, and click Roll Back Driver. You will be prompted for a reason — select any option and click Yes. This reverts to the previous driver version, which is often more stable.

If the Roll Back Driver option is grayed out, use Update Driver > Search automatically for drivers instead. Windows will check for a newer, potentially more stable driver and install it if available.

Tip: Windows Update can install driver updates without your knowledge. Check Settings > Windows Update > Update History to see if any drivers were recently updated. If they were, you can roll them back in Device Manager using the steps above.

I have dedicated tutorials that show you exactly how to install or update drivers. Check them out if you need more help:

You can also read my written guides on how to install drivers on Windows 10/11 and how to install missing drivers using Snappy Driver Installer Origin.

Fix 3: Test Your RAM for Errors

Faulty RAM is the second most common cause of blue screens, and your computer could have a bad memory stick without showing any obvious symptoms other than occasional crashes. Windows includes a built-in tool called the Windows Memory Diagnostic that can test for memory errors.

Search for “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in the Start menu and open it. Select Restart now and check for problems. Your computer will restart and display a diagnostic screen that tests your RAM for errors. This process can take quite a while depending on how much memory you have — just be patient and let it complete.

If the diagnostic tool crashes during the test, that is a strong indicator that your RAM is faulty. If you have multiple RAM sticks, you will need to remove all but one and test each stick individually to identify which one is bad.

Once the test completes and the computer restarts, if you do not see results automatically, open Event Viewer (search for it in the Start menu), navigate to Windows Logs > System, click Find, and search for MemoryDiagnostics-Results (this is case sensitive — type it exactly). The results entry will tell you whether any errors were detected.

The built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic is a decent starting point, but it is not the most thorough test available. For a definitive RAM test, I always recommend MemTest86, which runs outside of Windows and catches errors the built-in tool can miss. I have an in-depth tutorial on how to use it:

Read the full written guide on how to test RAM for errors with MemTest86.

Fix 4: Check Your Hard Drive or SSD Health

If your RAM tests come back clean, the next thing to check is your storage drives. A failing hard drive or SSD with bad sectors or file system corruption can cause blue screens with stop codes like KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR or CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED.

To run a disk check, right-click the Start button and open Terminal or PowerShell as Admin. Run the following command:

chkdsk C: /f /r

Replace C: with whatever drive letter you want to test. If you have multiple drives, test each one. When prompted, type Y and press Enter to schedule the check for the next restart. Restart your computer, and when you see the message about skipping disk checking — do not press any key. Let it run the full check.

If your computer crashes during the Check Disk process, that is a strong sign that the drive is failing and may need to be replaced.

Check Disk is a good start, but it can only detect certain types of errors — it cannot check for physical issues or predict drive failure. For a more thorough test, I recommend using your SSD manufacturer’s diagnostic software, or the SeaTools desktop edition which works with any hard drive or SSD brand:

Read the full guide on how to test your hard drive or SSD health.

Fix 5: Repair Corrupt Windows System Files

Corrupt Windows system files can cause blue screens even when your hardware is perfectly healthy. Windows includes two built-in repair tools — DISM and SFC — that can scan for and fix corrupted files automatically. Run these commands in order from an Admin Terminal or PowerShell (right-click the Start button to open it).

First, run the DISM command:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This scans the Windows component store for corruption and repairs it using Windows Update as a source for clean files. It can take 10-30 minutes depending on your system — be patient and let it finish completely.

Then, run the SFC command:

sfc /scannow

This performs a second verification pass on all protected system files. It is faster than DISM and will tell you if it found and repaired any corrupt files. After running both commands, restart your computer and check if the blue screens have stopped.

Fix 6: Boot into Safe Mode and Use System Restore

If you have reached this point, your system probably will not boot normally and you are stuck in a blue screen loop during startup. When this happens, Windows should automatically bring you to the Windows Recovery Environment after a few failed boot attempts.

To enter Safe Mode: From the Recovery screen, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings, click Restart, then press 4 on your keyboard to enable Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts Windows with only the most essential drivers and services, which lets you troubleshoot without the problematic driver or software interfering.

Once in Safe Mode, you can perform all the fixes from earlier in this guide — uninstall recently added software, uninstall Windows updates, roll back drivers in Device Manager, and run the DISM and SFC commands. After making changes, restart and see if Windows boots normally.

To use System Restore: If Safe Mode does not help, go back to the Recovery screen and navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore. Click Next, and you will see a list of available restore points — previous snapshots of your system from when it was working properly. Click “Show more restore points” if needed, select one from before the blue screens started, and click Finish to begin the restore.

Note: System Restore only works if your computer had restore points enabled. If no restore points are available, you will need to move on to the next fix.

Fix 7: Clean Install Windows (Last Resort)

If nothing else has worked, your last software-based option is a fresh Windows installation. This wipes everything and gives you a clean slate, which eliminates any software-related cause of the blue screens. There are two ways to do this.

Option 1 — Reset this PC: From the Recovery screen, go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. Choose Keep my files (removes apps and settings but preserves personal files), then select Cloud download to get a fresh copy of the Windows system files directly from Microsoft.

Option 2 — Full clean install (recommended): For the most reliable result, do a complete clean install using a USB drive with a fresh Windows ISO. I have a full tutorial on how to use Winhance’s Windows Installation Media Utility to create a custom ISO that is already debloated and optimized from the moment you reach the desktop:

Important: Before doing a clean install, back up all of your important files to a separate drive. A clean install completely wipes the drive you are installing Windows to — everything on it will be permanently deleted.

What If Windows Still Blue Screens After a Clean Install?

If you are still getting blue screens after a completely fresh Windows installation, you are almost certainly dealing with faulty hardware. At this point, the problem is either failing RAM, a dying hard drive or SSD, a faulty graphics card, or in rare cases a failing motherboard or CPU.

If you have already tested your RAM and drives using the methods above and they passed, the next step is to stress test your graphics card for errors:

If the GPU also passes, I would recommend taking your computer to a professional repair shop or contacting your system manufacturer. Motherboard and CPU failures are difficult to diagnose without specialized equipment.

Secure Your Connection with ProtonVPN

While troubleshooting your PC, it is worth securing your internet connection too. I personally use ProtonVPN — they have a genuinely free tier with unlimited bandwidth and no logs, which is rare for a VPN provider. The free version auto-connects to the fastest available server, making it great for everyday private browsing.

If you need to pick a specific country (like for streaming), you will need their paid plan. This video is not sponsored by ProtonVPN, but the links below are affiliate links — if you decide to upgrade, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, and it helps support the channel.

• ProtonVPN Free (Unlimited Data)
• ProtonVPN Plus (Special Deal)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a blue screen of death mean my computer is broken?

Not usually. The majority of blue screens are caused by software issues — bad drivers, corrupt system files, or problematic Windows updates — all of which can be fixed without replacing any hardware. You should only suspect faulty hardware if blue screens continue after a clean install of Windows.

What is the most common cause of BSOD in Windows?

Drivers are responsible for approximately 70% of all blue screens in Windows 10 and 11. Graphics card drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and network adapter drivers are the most frequent culprits. Rolling back a recently updated driver or installing the latest stable version from the manufacturer’s website usually resolves the issue.

How do I find out what caused my blue screen?

Download the free tool BlueScreenView by NirSoft. It reads the crash dump files that Windows automatically saves each time a blue screen occurs and displays the exact stop code and the specific driver or process that triggered the crash. You can then search for that stop code or driver name to find a targeted fix.

Can a Windows update cause a blue screen?

Yes, this happens more often than you would expect. Windows updates can install new drivers or change system components in ways that cause instability on certain hardware configurations. If your blue screens started right after an update, go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates and remove the most recent update to see if that resolves it.

Will I lose my files if I get a blue screen?

In most cases, no. The blue screen is actually Windows protecting your data — it halts everything before file corruption can occur, and your files should be intact after a restart. However, if the blue screens are being caused by a failing hard drive or SSD, there is a real risk of data loss over time. This is why I always recommend having regular backups of your important files on a separate drive.

This post SOLVED: Blue Screen of Death in Windows 10/11 (EVERY Fix!) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

Secure Boot certificates on Windows are expiring in June 2026, and you’ve probably already seen the news going around. Some of the coverage out there makes it sound like your PC is about to explode or something, but it’s not that dramatic. Your PC is not going to stop working. That said, it is something worth taking care of, and the good news is it only takes a few minutes to sort out. Let me walk you through exactly what’s going on and what you need to do.

Key Takeaways

• Secure Boot certificates created in 2011 are expiring in June 2026, affecting most Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems released since 2012.
• Your PC will not stop booting after the certificates expire, but it will enter a degraded security state and lose the ability to receive future boot-level protections.
• Most users will receive the updated certificates automatically through Windows Update, but you can check your status and update manually in just a few minutes using PowerShell.

Requirements

• A PC running a supported version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 (or Windows Server 2022/2025)
• Administrator access to run PowerShell or Terminal commands
• Secure Boot enabled in your BIOS or UEFI settings (if Secure Boot is not enabled on your system, none of this applies to you)

Why Do You Need to Update Your Secure Boot Certificates?

Secure Boot is a security feature built into your PC’s firmware. When you turn on your computer, before Windows even starts loading, Secure Boot checks that the software trying to run is digitally signed by a trusted source. Think of it like a bouncer at a club checking IDs at the door. If the ID is valid, you get in. If it’s not, you stay outside — or in the case of Secure Boot, the system simply won’t boot.

The certificates that Secure Boot uses to do those checks were created back in 2011. After 15 years, those certificates are now expiring in June 2026. Microsoft actually posted about this back in June 2025, so there’s been almost a year of notice. There are two certificates expiring in June 2026 and one more expiring in October 2026. New certificates need to be installed to maintain that protection and keep things running smoothly going forward.

Who Is Affected by the Secure Boot Certificate Expiry?

According to Microsoft, the affected systems include both physical machines and virtual machines on supported versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2025, Windows Server 2022, and other supported server versions — basically any system released since 2012, including Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) editions.

The systems that are not affected are Copilot Plus PCs released in 2025, as those already have the newer certificates in place. It’s also worth noting that if you dual-boot Windows and Linux, Windows will take care of updating the certificates that Linux relies on as well. Mac OS is technically affected, but it falls outside the scope of Microsoft support.

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Secure Boot Certificates?

This is the question most people are asking, and Microsoft is pretty clear about it. If your device doesn’t receive the new Secure Boot certificates before the old 2011 certificates expire, your PC will continue to function normally and your existing software will keep running. Your PC is not going to stop booting.

What does happen is your device enters a degraded security state. This limits its ability to receive future boot-level protections, and over time you might start running into compatibility issues with hardware, firmware, or software that expects the new certificates to be present.

I like to think of it this way: it’s a lot like having a driver’s license that’s expired. Your car will still work and you can still drive it, but you’re technically not covered. So you should get the license renewed.

There’s also a known vulnerability called Black Lotus that’s worth being aware of in this context. According to Microsoft’s security write-up on it, Black Lotus can only be deployed to a device where the threat actor has already gained privileged or physical access — so it’s not something you’re going to accidentally pick up just by browsing the internet. But keeping your certificates updated is still good security practice regardless.

Important: If you don’t install the updated certificates before June 2026, you don’t lose the ability to update them entirely. It just means there will be a gap — from the point the old certificates expire until you actually install the new ones — where your system is in a reduced security state. Installing the updates at any point will still bring you back up to a protected state.

How to Check and Update Your Secure Boot Certificates

Here are the steps to check whether Secure Boot is enabled on your system, whether your certificates are already up to date, and how to install them if they’re not. I recommend going through these checks just so you know where you stand.

Step 1: Open Terminal or PowerShell as Administrator

Right-click the Start menu icon in the taskbar and select Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin). This will open the terminal window with the admin privileges needed to run these commands.

Step 2: Check If Secure Boot Is Enabled

Run the following command in the terminal:

Confirm-SecureBootUEFI

• True — Secure Boot is enabled on your system. Continue to Step 3.
• False — Secure Boot is not enabled. Since Secure Boot isn’t checking any certificates, none of this applies to you and you don’t need to do anything further.

Note: If you want to enable Secure Boot, you’ll need to go into your BIOS or UEFI settings and enable it from there. This isn’t something you do from within Windows itself.

Step 3: Check If Your Secure Boot Certificates Are Already Up to Date

If Secure Boot is enabled, run this next command to check whether the updated certificates are already installed on your system:

[System.Text.Encoding]::ASCII.GetString((Get-SecureBootUEFI db).bytes) -match 'Windows UEFI CA 2023'

• True — The updated Secure Boot certificates are already installed on your system. You’re good to go and don’t need to do anything else.
• False — The updated certificates are not yet installed. Continue to Step 4 to install them.

Step 4: Install the Updated Secure Boot Certificates

If the second command returned false, here are two ways to get the updated certificates installed.

Option 1: Install via Windows Update (Recommended)

The easiest way is to simply run Windows Update. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install the latest available updates. For most individuals and businesses that let Microsoft manage their PC updates, the new certificates will be installed automatically through the regular monthly update process with no extra action needed. If you’re already fully up to date, the certificates should already be there.

For users of Winhance, my free Windows enhancement utility, there’s a Windows Update policy setting inside the app that gives you four options for how updates are handled. If you’ve set yours to Paused for a Long Time or Disabled, there’s a real chance you haven’t received the updated certificates yet. In that case, I’d strongly recommend going back into Winhance and switching the policy to Security Updates Only or Normal, then getting your computer up to date so it can download the latest certificates.

Tip: If you’ve previously disabled automatic Windows updates, now is a good time to temporarily re-enable them or manually check for updates to make sure your Secure Boot certificates get updated before the June 2026 deadline.

Option 2: Manually Install via Registry Entry and Scheduled Task

If you’d rather not go through Windows Update, you can manually trigger the certificate installation by running the following command in your elevated terminal. The first part adds a registry entry that tells Windows a Secure Boot update is available, and the second part triggers the scheduled task to install it:

reg add HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Secureboot /v AvailableUpdates /t REG_DWORD /d 0x5944 /f; Start-ScheduledTask -TaskName "\Microsoft\Windows\PI\Secure-Boot-Update"

You should see a message saying the operation completed successfully. This works even if you’ve already got the latest certificates installed — it will simply report success either way.

Important: After running this command, you need to restart your PC twice for it to fully take effect. The first restart applies the certificate update, and the second restart clears the boot manager cache and finalizes everything. I know that sounds a bit odd, but that’s just how this particular update works.

Once you’ve completed both restarts, open the terminal again and re-run the command from Step 3. It should now return True, confirming that the updated certificates are installed.

One More Thing: Check Your Old Windows Installation USB Drives

There’s one more thing worth mentioning that a lot of people overlook. If you’ve got an old Windows installation USB drive that you created a while back, it was signed with the old 2011 certificates. When those certificates expire in June 2026, that USB might not boot anymore on a system with Secure Boot enabled.

So if you’ve got an older Windows USB sitting in a drawer somewhere, it might be worth creating a fresh one using the latest Windows ISO available directly from Microsoft, just to be safe.

Conclusion

To recap: Secure Boot certificates from 2011 are expiring in June 2026. Your PC is not going to stop working, but you should get the updated certificates installed because it keeps you protected at the boot level and avoids potential compatibility issues down the road. Most people with Windows Update running normally will get the new certificates automatically without doing a thing. But if you’ve got updates paused or disabled, you’ll want to handle this before the deadline hits.

Run the two PowerShell commands to check your current status first, and then decide whether you need to take action. It really doesn’t take long. A few minutes of your time now means you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your system is covered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will my PC stop working when Secure Boot certificates expire in June 2026?

No, your PC will not stop working or stop booting when the old certificates expire in June 2026. What happens is your device enters a degraded security state, which limits its ability to receive future boot-level protections. Over time you may also run into compatibility issues with hardware, firmware, or software that expects the new certificates to be there. It’s not an emergency for most home users, but you should still get the certificates updated.

Do I need to do anything if Secure Boot is not enabled on my PC?

No. If Secure Boot is disabled on your system, it’s not checking any certificates at all, so none of this applies to you. You can confirm by running Confirm-SecureBootUEFI in an admin PowerShell window — if it returns False, Secure Boot is off and this update has no impact on your system.

How do I know if my Secure Boot certificates are already updated?

Open Terminal or PowerShell as administrator and run [System.Text.Encoding]::ASCII.GetString((Get-SecureBootUEFI db).bytes) -match 'Windows UEFI CA 2023'. If it returns True, the updated certificates are already installed and you don’t need to do anything else. If it returns False, follow the steps in this guide to install them via Windows Update or the manual command.

What is Black Lotus and should I be worried about it?

Black Lotus is a known bootkit vulnerability that Secure Boot helps protect against. According to Microsoft’s security documentation, it can only be deployed to a device where a threat actor has already gained privileged or physical access to the machine — so it’s not something you’re going to randomly pick up while browsing the internet. For most home users the direct risk is low, but keeping your Secure Boot certificates updated is still solid security practice and well worth the few minutes it takes.

What happens if I miss the June 2026 deadline for updating my Secure Boot certificates?

You don’t permanently lose the ability to update if you miss the deadline. What happens is there will be a period — from when the old certificates expire until the point you actually install the new ones — where your system is in a degraded security state. Once you do install the updates, your system will be protected again. So while updating before June 2026 is ideal, it’s still far better to update late than to never update at all.

This post Your Windows Secure Boot Certificates EXPIRE in June 2026 first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

Microsoft PowerToys just dropped version 0.98 and buried inside this update is a feature that honestly should have been built into Windows from day one. It’s called the Command Palette Dock, and once you set it up, you might not even need the regular Windows taskbar anymore. I’m going to show you exactly how to enable it, customize it, and extend it with extra features from the Microsoft Store.

Key Takeaways

• The Command Palette Dock is a brand new feature in Microsoft PowerToys 0.98 that acts like a fully customizable second taskbar you can place on any edge of your screen.
• The dock supports built-in transparency, live system resource monitoring (CPU, RAM, GPU, and network speeds), and free extensions from the Microsoft Store to expand what it can do.
• It is still in preview so expect the occasional crash, but it is stable enough to use daily and has real potential as a genuine Windows taskbar replacement.

Requirements

• Microsoft PowerToys version 0.98 or later — available for free from the Microsoft Store.
• Windows 10 or Windows 11 — Windows 11 will give you the best experience, especially with the transparency features.

Why Use the PowerToys Command Palette Dock?

The default Windows taskbar gets the job done, but it has always been limited when it comes to real customization. You can’t easily add system monitors to it, freely move it to different sides of the screen, or make it properly transparent without reaching for a third-party app. I’ve covered how to make the Windows 11 taskbar transparent using a tool called TranslucentTB, and while that works great, the new Command Palette Dock has that built right in — no extra app needed.

On top of that, the dock doubles as a launcher, a calculator, a clipboard manager, a file searcher, and a live system monitor all rolled into one bar. If you’ve ever wanted a cleaner and more powerful alternative to the standard taskbar, this is worth trying. You can even auto-hide the regular Windows taskbar completely and just run the dock instead.

How to Set Up the Command Palette Dock in PowerToys

Step 1: Download and Install PowerToys 0.98

You’ll need PowerToys version 0.98 or later installed on your PC. If you don’t have it yet, open the Microsoft Store and search for Microsoft PowerToys. It’s a normal download and installation. If you already have PowerToys, just make sure it’s updated to the latest version.

Step 2: Open the Command Palette in PowerToys

Once PowerToys is open, find and click on the Command Palette option in the left-hand menu. This opens the Command Palette interface. From there, click on Settings to get into the configuration options.

Step 3: Enable the Dock

Inside Command Palette Settings, click the Dock tab on the left side. You’ll see a note that this feature is still in preview — meaning bugs are to be expected. Go ahead and flip the Enable Dock toggle to turn it on.

You’ll see the dock appear on your screen right away. By default mine was positioned at the top, which is where I kept it. When you first enable it you might notice a white line at the bottom of the bar — just click on it and it disappears once the dock repositions itself.

Note: Because the dock is in preview, crashes can happen. If it crashes, open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc, end all PowerToys-related tasks, then relaunch PowerToys. The dock will come back up automatically.

What’s on the Command Palette Dock by Default

Right out of the box, the dock already comes with some useful stuff on it. Here’s what you get straight away:

• Command Palette button — opens the full Command Palette, which works almost like a replacement for the Start menu.
• WinGet search — lets you search for apps using WinGet, Microsoft’s built-in package manager.
• System resource monitors on the right — showing live CPU usage, memory usage, GPU usage, and your network upload and download speeds.
• Date and time — clicking on it lets you copy the current time or date directly from the dock.

Customizing the Command Palette Dock

Change the Dock Position

You can position the dock on any edge of your screen — top, bottom, left, or right. Just go into the dock settings and pick wherever it suits your workflow best. I keep mine at the top of the screen.

Make the Dock Transparent

One of my favorite things about the new dock is the built-in transparency option. I’ve used third-party apps in the past to get a transparent taskbar on Windows 11, but with the Command Palette Dock you don’t need anything extra. In the dock settings, just switch the theme mode to Transparent and you’ll see your full desktop wallpaper through the bar. It looks really clean.

You can also set a custom background color or even use an image as the dock background. Keep in mind though — if the dock is set to transparent, a background image won’t show through anyway, so I’d just stick with transparent.

Auto-Hide the Windows Taskbar

Since the dock handles most of what the standard taskbar does — and then some — you might want to hide the Windows 11 taskbar to free up screen space and let the dock take center stage. This gives you a noticeably cleaner desktop.

Using the Command Palette

The Command Palette itself is where a lot of the power is. You can set a keyboard shortcut to open it quickly — I changed mine to Ctrl + Enter because it just felt more natural. Here’s a quick look at everything you can do with it:

• Search for and launch installed apps
• Run commands (works like the Run dialog box)
• Use it as a calculator — type an equal sign (=) to enter calculator mode and do math on the fly, then copy the result to your clipboard
• Search for files on your computer
• Search the web
• Add and open bookmarks
• View and paste from your clipboard history

Each function in the Command Palette shows its shortcut key on the right side. Once you learn these shortcuts, it becomes a very fast way to get things done. The Extensions tab in the settings shows you everything that’s enabled by default.

Tip: For the Command Palette’s own appearance, I’d recommend setting it to the Mica Alt option. This lets your wallpaper colors bleed through the Command Palette window, which looks a lot better than a plain opaque background.

Adding Command Palette Extensions from the Microsoft Store

This is where it gets really interesting. You can expand what the Command Palette and the dock can do by downloading free extensions from the Microsoft Store. There are already quite a few available, and more are being added over time. You can even build your own — Microsoft has a page on Microsoft Learn explaining exactly how to register a custom extension — but for most people, the Store has everything you’ll need.

Note: I tried searching for Command Palette extensions using the WinGet search function on the dock itself and didn’t get useful results. I’d recommend going straight to the Microsoft Store and searching for “Command Palette” — that’s the easiest and most reliable way to find and install extensions.

Example: Installing the Media Controls Extension

As an example, I downloaded the Media Controls for Command Palette extension from the Microsoft Store. Here’s how to install it and get it on the dock:

1. Open the Microsoft Store and search for “Command Palette.”
2. Find the Media Controls for Command Palette extension and download it. It installs just like a normal app.
3. Once installed, open the Command Palette with your keyboard shortcut. The media controls extension will already be active, showing you the currently playing song and giving you controls to pause, play, or skip tracks.

Adding the Extension to the Dock

Installing the extension makes it available in the Command Palette, but to pin it permanently on the dock itself you need to do one extra step:

1. Right-click on the dock and select Edit Dock.
2. Click the plus (+) sign to see everything you can add to the dock.
3. Select the extension you want — in this case, the Media Player — from the list.
4. Click Save and it will now appear permanently on your dock.

To reorder items on the dock, right-click the dock again, choose Edit Dock, click and drag the item to the position you want, then click Save.

Troubleshooting Command Palette Dock Crashes

I experienced a crash myself when I right-clicked the dock to edit it — the whole Command Palette just quit. This kind of thing is to be expected since it’s still in preview. Here’s exactly what to do if it crashes on you:

1. Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Find and end all PowerToys-related tasks that are still running.
3. Relaunch PowerToys from the Start menu or your desktop shortcut.

As soon as PowerToys starts back up, the dock reappears automatically and everything is back to normal. It’s a minor inconvenience, not a dealbreaker — and it’ll only get more stable as Microsoft continues to develop the feature.

Take Your Windows Customization Further with Winhance

If tweaking and improving your Windows setup is something you enjoy, you should also check out Winhance — the free, open-source Windows Enhancement Utility I created. It gives you hands-on control over Windows privacy settings, taskbar customization, bloatware removal, startup optimization, and more, all from one clean interface. It pairs really well with tools like PowerToys if your goal is a fully optimized Windows experience.

Conclusion

The PowerToys Command Palette Dock is one of those features that, once you use it for a few days, you won’t want to go back. Yes, it’s in preview and yes, there are some rough edges — but the core of it is genuinely useful. Having a transparent dock at the top of my screen with live system monitors, a quick launcher, and media controls all in one place has changed how I interact with Windows on a daily basis.

I’m planning to keep using it and try out more extensions from the Microsoft Store over the next week or so. If you want a follow-up post on the best Command Palette extensions I find, drop a comment on the video above. And if you haven’t already, grab the latest version of PowerToys from the Microsoft Store and give the Command Palette Dock a try.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What version of PowerToys do I need for the Command Palette Dock?

You need at least Microsoft PowerToys version 0.98. You can download or update PowerToys for free from the Microsoft Store. The Dock tab won’t appear in earlier versions.

Is the Command Palette Dock stable enough to use every day?

It’s usable daily, but since it’s still in preview you should expect the occasional crash. The fix is quick — just kill the PowerToys processes in Task Manager and relaunch. Everything comes back right away so it’s more of a minor annoyance than anything serious.

Can I use the Command Palette Dock to replace the Windows taskbar?

Absolutely. Once the dock is set up the way you want it, you can auto-hide the standard Windows taskbar and use the dock as your main bar. It covers app launching, file searching, system monitoring, and more — everything the taskbar does, plus extra functionality the taskbar never had.

Where do I find extensions for the Command Palette Dock?

The best place is the Microsoft Store. Search for “Command Palette” and you’ll find a growing list of free extensions you can install. I’d avoid using the WinGet search on the dock to find extensions — the Microsoft Store search gives you much better results.

Can I create my own extension for the Command Palette?

Yes, you can. Microsoft has a dedicated page on Microsoft Learn that walks through how to register and build your own Command Palette extension. It’s an advanced option aimed at developers, but it’s a great option if you want to build something fully custom for your workflow.

This post This FREE App Might Replace the Windows 11 Taskbar for Me first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

Microsoft just published a blog post that honestly I never thought I’d see. The Executive Vice President of Windows basically admitted that Windows quality hasn’t been good enough — and laid out specific things that are going to change. This is a big deal. Tools like Winhance and many other Windows optimization utilities exist precisely because Microsoft wasn’t giving users the control they deserved natively. When an operating system forces you to find workarounds just to use it the way you want, something is wrong. That’s been the story of Windows 11 for a while now.

The Windows Insider Program team published a blog post titled “Our Commitment to Windows Quality” and it covers some real, specific changes coming to Windows 11. I went through the whole thing in detail in the video below, so check that out if you’d rather watch than read.

Key Takeaways

• Microsoft has officially admitted Windows quality hasn’t been good enough and committed to specific improvements across the taskbar, updates, Copilot integration, File Explorer, and widgets.
• Highlights include bringing back moveable taskbar positions, reducing Copilot entry points in apps, giving users more control over when updates install, and quieter widget defaults.
• These changes will start rolling out through Windows Insider preview builds in March and April 2026, with stable releases expected later in the year.

Why Does This Microsoft Windows 11 Quality Commitment Matter?

If you’ve ever wondered why third-party tools like Winhance even exist — tools that let you disable widgets, remove Copilot, control Windows updates, and customize your taskbar — it’s because Microsoft simply wasn’t giving users those options natively. For years, people have had to rely on workarounds, registry hacks, and third-party apps just to make Windows behave the way they wanted. That shouldn’t be the case for a modern operating system.

So when the EVP of Windows writes a blog post saying the team has spent months analyzing user feedback and is committed to doing better, it means something. I’m not saying take it all at face value. But it’s a real acknowledgment, and the changes they’ve outlined are genuinely things users have been asking for.

What Microsoft Is Promising for Windows 11

Taskbar Customization Is Coming Back to Windows 11

This one genuinely excited me. Microsoft is officially bringing back the ability to move the taskbar in Windows 11, including vertical and top positions. If you’ve watched my channel for a while, you know I currently use a third-party app called Start Allback to move my taskbar to the top of the screen. The fact that I need a third-party tool just to do something Windows 10 could do natively says everything about where Windows 11 has been.

In the very first versions of Windows 11, you could at least edit the registry to reposition the taskbar. Then Microsoft removed that capability in a later update, which frustrated a lot of people — myself included. Getting this back as a built-in option is a huge win, and honestly this change alone makes me excited about what else they have planned.

Note: Taskbar repositioning hasn’t rolled out yet. It will appear in Windows Insider preview builds first before making its way to the stable release channel.

Microsoft Is Scaling Back Copilot Integration in Windows 11 Apps

Microsoft says they’re going to be more intentional about how and where Copilot integrates across Windows. As part of this, they’re reducing what they call “unnecessary Copilot entry points” — starting with apps like Snipping Tool, Photos, Widgets, and Notepad. If you’ve been annoyed by Copilot buttons showing up in places you never asked for them, this is a step in the right direction.

That said, the wording is a little vague. There’s a real difference between being “more intentional” about where Copilot shows up and actually giving users the choice to disable Copilot in Windows 11 entirely. A lot of people don’t want any AI features in their operating system at all. This is a good starting point, but what I’d really like to see is a proper toggle — enable or disable these AI features, your choice. We’ll have to wait for the Insider builds to see exactly what this looks like in practice.

Reducing the Disruption From Windows Updates

This one hit close to home for me. I actually made a video (linked below) a while back specifically complaining about being stuck on the Windows update screen during the initial setup process when getting a new PC up and running. Depending on your internet speed, that can take hours — and there was no way to skip it. Microsoft is now saying they’re adding the ability to skip updates during device setup so you can get straight to the desktop. It would be funny if they happened to see that video.

Beyond the setup experience, they’re also promising:

• An option to restart or shut down without installing any updates that have already been downloaded
• The ability to pause updates for a longer period when needed
• Fewer automatic restarts and less update-related notification noise

If you’ve ever been mid-game or working on something important and had Windows force a restart to install an update, you know exactly how frustrating that is. I’ve had a Windows update policy setting in Winhance for a while now that gives you control over this — but honestly, a setting like that shouldn’t have to exist in a third-party tool. It should be built into Windows. So seeing Microsoft finally add this natively is really good to see.

In the meantime, if you’ve been dealing with problematic updates and need to take action now, my guide on how to uninstall Windows 11 updates and clear the update cache walks you through removing a bad update and stopping it from reinstalling automatically.

A Faster and More Reliable File Explorer

Microsoft is also focusing on making File Explorer launch more quickly and reducing the flicker when it opens. If you use Windows in dark mode, you’ve almost certainly noticed that flash of white when File Explorer first loads before it fully renders. It’s one of those small annoyances that adds up over time. Smoother navigation and more reliable overall performance for File Explorer might not be the most exciting thing on this list, but it’s still a welcome improvement that will make using Windows feel more polished day to day.

More Control Over Windows 11 Widgets

Microsoft says widgets should feel helpful and relevant, not distracting or overwhelming. They’re introducing quieter defaults and giving users more control over when and how widgets appear, along with improved personalization for the Discover feed. That sounds decent, but personally, what I actually want is the option to turn widgets off completely — not just make them less intrusive or personalize what shows up.

In Winhance, I’ve had a simple toggle to fully disable widgets on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 for a while now. More personalization is better than nothing, but it doesn’t go far enough for users who just want a clean taskbar with no widgets button in sight. Hopefully the ability to fully disable it comes along with these changes.

An Improved Feedback Hub

Microsoft has also updated the Feedback Hub — the built-in Windows app that lets you report problems and submit suggestions directly to Microsoft. This update is already available now. The idea is that user feedback should be easy to share and easy to see what other users are saying too.

The Windows Insider program and the Feedback Hub aren’t new, but what is different here is the commitment behind them. Microsoft is actively asking users to help shape the future of Windows. If you want to have a say in what gets built, now is a really good time to use the Feedback Hub to submit suggestions — or sign up for the Windows Insider program to test these new features before they hit the stable release channel.

What I’d Still Like to See Microsoft Add

The blog post is a great start. But specifically on the Windows update front — which has been a serious topic given how rough 2026 has been for buggy cumulative updates breaking people’s computers — I think more work needs to be done. Here’s what I’d personally still like to see.

Granular Control Over Which Updates Get Installed

If you remember Windows 7, opening Windows Update through the Control Panel gave you a full list of available updates, each one categorized — security, optional, driver. You could pick exactly which ones to install, and you could tell Windows Update not to show you a specific update again if you didn’t want it. That level of control has been completely stripped away in Windows 11.

Right now Microsoft is saying you’ll be able to pause updates for longer. But pausing just delays the same updates — including ones you might not want at all. Being able to choose individual updates the way Windows 7 let you do is what I’d really like to see come back. Just add a checkbox next to each item in the update list and let users decide.

Separating Security Updates From Feature Updates

The other thing I’d love to see is a clean separation between security updates and feature updates. Right now Microsoft bundles everything into one large cumulative update. If a new feature ships with a bug — which has happened plenty of times recently — you’re stuck with that bug because the security patches you actually need are in the same package. You can’t take one without the other.

A feature update should be completely separate from a security update. Give me the choice to install new taskbar changes or Copilot tweaks when I’m ready for them. But the actual security vulnerability patches? Those should be small, focused, and separate — so they can be pushed without dragging along new features that might break something.

Note: Even when Windows updates are paused, the Windows Update service continues running in the background using system resources. This means pausing updates doesn’t give you the full control that many users are actually looking for — it just delays the inevitable.

Conclusion

I’m genuinely excited about what Microsoft is promising here. The taskbar repositioning alone is something I’ve wanted for a long time. The fact that they’re addressing Windows update disruptions, pulling back on Copilot integration, and talking about better widget control tells me the feedback from the community is actually getting through — whether that’s from the Windows Insider program, from YouTubers who’ve been vocal about Windows 11’s shortcomings, or maybe even a video or two complaining about the same things they’re now promising to fix.

That said, I’m taking the “Windows is as much yours as it is ours” quote with a grain of salt. Up until this point, that hasn’t really been the case. But actions speak louder than words, and we’ll see what these changes actually look like when they hit the Insider builds throughout March and April 2026 and beyond. I’ll be covering each one as they roll out, so make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

In the meantime, if you want real control over your Windows 11 experience right now — from disabling widgets and Copilot to managing updates and customizing your taskbar — Winhance is free, open source, and already does a lot of what Microsoft is only just now promising to offer natively. Which of these upcoming changes are you most excited about? The taskbar customization, the update control, or the Copilot cleanup? Let me know in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the new Windows 11 taskbar customization options be available?

Microsoft says these improvements will begin rolling out through Windows Insider preview builds in March and April 2026. After testing in the Insider program, they’ll make their way to the stable release channel later in the year. If you want early access, you can join the Windows Insider program and opt into a preview build to try the changes before they’re finalized.

Can I move the Windows 11 taskbar to the top or side of the screen right now?

Not through official Windows settings yet — that’s one of the changes Microsoft is actively working on. In the meantime, a third-party app called Start Allback lets you reposition your taskbar to the top of the screen. Microsoft’s native support for vertical and top taskbar positions is coming but hasn’t landed in the stable release channel as of now.

How can I disable Copilot in Windows 11 right now without waiting for Microsoft?

You can follow the step-by-step guide on how to enable or disable Copilot in Windows 11 to remove it from your system today. Microsoft’s upcoming changes aim to reduce Copilot’s presence in apps like Notepad and Snipping Tool, but if you want it fully removed right now, that guide walks you through the process.

What should I do if a Windows 11 update breaks my computer?

If a Windows update causes problems on your system, you can uninstall the problematic update and clear the Windows update cache to stop it from automatically reinstalling. Keep in mind that not every update can be removed — security patches are typically protected — but most feature-related cumulative updates can be rolled back through Windows Settings under Update History.

Is there a tool that gives me better control over Windows 11 right now?

Yes. Winhance is a free, open-source Windows enhancement utility that I built to give users control over things Microsoft doesn’t natively offer — like disabling widgets, managing update behavior, removing Copilot, adjusting privacy settings, and customizing the taskbar and Start menu. It works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it gives you the kind of control that Microsoft is only just starting to add natively with these upcoming changes.

This post Microsoft Just Promised to FIX Windows 11 first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

If the Microsoft Store won’t open on Windows 10 or 11, the most reliable fix is to uninstall it using PowerShell and then reinstall it through the Xbox app. Run Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Remove-AppxPackage in PowerShell as Administrator, then download the Xbox app from Xbox.com and use it to reinstall Microsoft Store.

Quick Steps:

1. Right-click the Start button and open PowerShell or Terminal as Administrator
2. Paste and run this command: Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Remove-AppxPackage
3. Close PowerShell once it finishes
4. Open your browser and go to Xbox.com or search for “Xbox app for Windows”
5. Click “Download the app,” run the installer, accept the terms, and click Install
6. Once installed, click “Let’s go” to open the Xbox app, then click “Browse the catalog”
7. Click “Review now” on the missing components banner, or go to Settings > General if the banner doesn’t appear
8. Find Microsoft Store in the list and click Install
9. Wait for the notification confirming installation, then open Microsoft Store normally

Why Does Reinstalling the Microsoft Store Fix It?

In my years running a computer repair shop, the Microsoft Store not opening was one of those issues that came up regularly. It almost always came down to the same thing: corrupted app files. This can happen after a Windows update goes wrong, after an interrupted app update, or just from normal use over time.

When the Store’s files get corrupted, trying to repair or reset it through Windows Settings doesn’t always clear it out completely. Uninstalling it through PowerShell wipes the broken installation cleanly, and reinstalling through the Xbox app pulls in a fresh working version with all the right components in place.

The reason you go through the Xbox app specifically is that Microsoft Store is listed as one of its required dependencies. When you install the Xbox app, it gives you a straightforward way to install or reinstall any missing components right from within the app itself.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Uninstall Microsoft Store via PowerShell

Right-click the Start button and select “PowerShell (Admin)” or “Terminal (Admin).” If you don’t see those options in the menu, search for PowerShell in the Start menu, right-click it, and choose “Run as administrator.”

Once PowerShell is open, paste in this command and press Enter:

Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Remove-AppxPackage

Wait for it to finish running, then close PowerShell. The Microsoft Store is now uninstalled from your computer and you won’t have access to it until you reinstall it in the next steps.

Step 2: Download and Install the Xbox App

Open your browser and either search for “Xbox app for Windows” or go directly to Xbox.com. Scroll down the page until you find the button that says “Download the app” and click on it. This downloads the Xbox app installer to your PC.

Once the download is done, open the installer file. The Xbox app installation wizard will open. Accept the terms and conditions and click Install. Wait for it to finish, then click “Let’s go” to launch the Xbox app.

Step 3: Reinstall Microsoft Store Through the Xbox App

In the Xbox app, click “Browse the catalog.” Near the top of the screen you should see a banner saying there are missing components for the Xbox app. Click “Review now” and you’ll be taken to a list of all the dependencies it needs.

If you don’t see the missing components banner, click the sign-in button in the Xbox app and then select Settings. In the Settings menu, click on General. You’ll find the full list of dependencies there, including Microsoft Store.

Click the Install button next to Microsoft Store. It might take a few minutes to complete. Once it’s done, you’ll get a notification confirming the Microsoft Store has been installed. You can now open it and use it like normal.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: PowerShell returns an error when running the uninstall command
Solution: You need to be running PowerShell as Administrator. Right-click on the PowerShell or Terminal icon and make sure you choose “Run as administrator” before entering the command.

Problem: The missing components banner doesn’t appear in the Xbox app
Solution: Click the sign-in button in the top-right corner of the Xbox app, then go to Settings and click General. The list of missing dependencies will be there even without the banner showing up on the home screen.

Problem: Microsoft Store still won’t open after reinstalling
Solution: Restart your PC after the reinstall. Windows sometimes needs a full reboot to properly register the newly installed app and clear out any leftover processes from the old corrupted version.

Problem: The Xbox app itself won’t install
Solution: Try downloading the installer again from Xbox.com using a different browser. Also make sure your Windows is up to date by going to Settings > Windows Update, as missing system updates can sometimes block app installations.

FAQ

Will uninstalling Microsoft Store delete my apps?

No, uninstalling the Microsoft Store app itself does not remove any apps you already have installed on your PC. Those stay right where they are. You just lose access to the Store interface until you reinstall it.

Is there a quicker fix to try before reinstalling?

Yes, you can try resetting the Store cache first. Press Win + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. This clears the Microsoft Store cache and sometimes fixes the issue without needing to fully uninstall and reinstall. If that doesn’t work, go ahead with the reinstall method above.

Why did Microsoft Store stop opening in the first place?

The most common causes are corrupted app files from a failed Windows update, an interrupted Store update, or third-party cleanup tools that accidentally removed files the Store depends on. It can also happen after using certain Windows debloating scripts that strip out core app components.

Can I install apps without Microsoft Store while I fix it?

Yes, most apps can be downloaded directly from the developer’s website or installed using a package manager like WinGet or Chocolatey. I actually have a guide on how to install apps on Windows without using the Microsoft Store that walks through both of those methods if you need to get something installed in the meantime.

Are there tools to help manage Windows apps more easily?

If you want an easier way to manage apps and settings across your whole Windows installation, I built a free open-source tool called Winhance. It lets you remove bloatware, manage Windows features, and tweak system settings without needing to run PowerShell commands for everything.

This post How to Fix Microsoft Store Not Opening Windows 11 (Tutorial) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To prevent Dev Home from being automatically installed on Windows 11, open Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe, right-click the DevHomeUpdate key, and delete it. Once that key is removed, Windows Update will no longer force-install Dev Home on your PC.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open Registry Editor
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe
3. Right-click the DevHomeUpdate key and click Delete
4. Click Yes to confirm the deletion
5. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

Why Does Windows 11 Install Dev Home Without Permission?

Dev Home is a developer-focused app that Microsoft started pushing through Windows Update as a force-installed package. That means it can show up on your PC after an update, even if you never asked for it and never use it. It’s meant for developers setting up coding environments, so most everyday users have no need for it.

The way Windows Update knows to install it is through a registry key under the UScheduler_Oobe path. This key acts as an instruction — once it’s there, Windows Update will install the corresponding app. Deleting the key removes that instruction, so the installation never triggers.

This is the same method I’ve used to prevent the New Outlook app from being force-installed on Windows 11. Microsoft uses this pattern for several apps it pushes through updates, and the registry fix is the same each time — find the key, delete it, done.

How to Prevent Dev Home Installation on Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog. Type regedit and press Enter. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes to allow it to open.

Step 2: Navigate to the Correct Registry Path

In Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe

You can either click through each folder in the left panel one by one, or paste the path directly into the address bar at the top of Registry Editor and press Enter. I always copy and paste these paths to save time — it’s much faster than navigating manually.

Step 3: Delete the DevHomeUpdate Key

Once you’re at the UScheduler_Oobe path, look for a key called DevHomeUpdate in the left panel. Right-click on it and select Delete. A confirmation dialog will pop up — click Yes to confirm.

Step 4: Close Registry Editor and Restart

Close the Registry Editor window. Then restart your PC to make sure the change takes effect. After the restart, Windows Update will no longer have the instruction to install Dev Home.

Want an Easier Way to Remove Windows Bloatware?

If you find yourself constantly having to hunt down registry keys just to stop Windows from installing apps you don’t want, I built something that handles a lot of this for you. Winhance is my free Windows enhancement utility that lets you remove bloatware, manage privacy settings, and stop unwanted apps — all through a clean interface, no manual registry editing required.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The DevHomeUpdate key doesn’t exist
Solution: If you don’t see the key, Dev Home may have already been installed on your PC, or Windows Update already ran and removed it on its own. Check if Dev Home appears in your Start menu or Settings > Apps. If it’s already installed, you can uninstall it from there.

Problem: Dev Home gets reinstalled after a Windows update
Solution: Microsoft occasionally re-adds these registry keys during major Windows updates. If Dev Home shows up again, just repeat the steps above to delete the key again.

Problem: I can’t find the UScheduler_Oobe folder
Solution: Make sure you’re navigating to the correct path under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE, not HKEY_CURRENT_USER. The folder structure must match exactly. Try pasting the full path into the Registry Editor address bar.

FAQ

What is Dev Home on Windows 11?

Dev Home is a developer dashboard app made by Microsoft. It’s designed to help developers set up coding environments, manage GitHub repositories, and monitor system performance during development tasks. For most regular users, it’s just unnecessary bloatware that takes up space.

Is it safe to delete registry keys?

Yes, deleting the DevHomeUpdate key is safe. You’re only removing an installation instruction that Windows Update uses to push Dev Home. You’re not touching any system files or core Windows registry entries. That said, always be careful in Registry Editor and only delete keys you’re sure about.

Can I uninstall Dev Home if it’s already installed?

Yes. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, search for “Dev Home,” click the three-dot menu next to it, and select Uninstall. After uninstalling, follow the registry steps above to stop it from coming back.

Does this work on Windows 10?

Dev Home is a Windows 11 app, so this specific fix only applies to Windows 11. Windows 10 users don’t need to worry about Dev Home being pushed through Windows Update.

Will this stop all unwanted apps from being installed?

This fix only prevents Dev Home specifically. Microsoft uses similar registry keys to push other apps like New Outlook. Each one needs to be dealt with separately, or you can use a tool like Winhance to manage bloatware removal more broadly.

This post How to Prevent Dev Home Installation on Windows 11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To stop Windows 11 from automatically installing New Outlook through Windows Update, open Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe, right-click the OutlookUpdate key, and delete it. That’s it — once that key is removed, Windows Update no longer has the instruction to push New Outlook onto your PC.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe
3. Right-click the OutlookUpdate key in the left panel and click Delete
4. Click Yes to confirm the deletion
5. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

Why Does Windows 11 Keep Installing New Outlook?

Microsoft uses Windows Update to silently push certain apps onto your PC, and New Outlook is one of the most aggressive examples of this. It gets bundled into regular update packages and installs itself in the background — you don’t get a prompt, you don’t get a choice, it just shows up. I’ve seen this happen on countless machines, and it’s frustrating every time.

The OutlookUpdate key inside the Windows Update Orchestrator folder is the instruction that tells Windows to install New Outlook the next time updates run. Deleting that key removes the instruction entirely. Microsoft uses this exact same tactic with other built-in apps too — if you’ve also been dealing with Edge getting pushed onto your PC, I covered how to uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in a separate guide.

If you want a more automated way to manage all of this — blocking unwanted apps, tweaking Windows settings, and keeping your system clean after updates — Winhance is a free tool I built that handles a lot of it in one place. But for just stopping New Outlook, the registry fix below gets the job done quickly.

How to Delete the OutlookUpdate Registry Key

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. If a User Account Control prompt appears, click Yes to allow Registry Editor to open.

Step 2: Navigate to the Registry Path

Click in the address bar at the top of Registry Editor and paste the following path, then press Enter:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe

This takes you directly to the folder that contains the key we need to remove. I always recommend copying the path rather than navigating manually — it’s faster and avoids typos.

Step 3: Delete the OutlookUpdate Key

Once you’re at the UScheduler_Oobe location, look for the OutlookUpdate subkey in the left panel. Right-click on it and click Delete. A confirmation dialog will appear — click Yes to confirm the deletion.

Step 4: Close Registry Editor and Restart

Close Registry Editor and restart your PC. After the restart, Windows Update will no longer have the instruction to install New Outlook, so it won’t quietly appear on your system through future updates.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The OutlookUpdate key doesn’t exist
Solution: This key is only present if Windows has queued New Outlook for installation but hasn’t installed it yet. If the key isn’t there, New Outlook may already be installed on your PC. In that case, go to Settings > Apps, find “Outlook (new),” uninstall it manually, and then check back after the next Windows update to see if the key reappears.

Problem: New Outlook came back after a Windows update
Solution: Microsoft can recreate this registry key through update packages. If the key returns and New Outlook gets installed again, just repeat the steps above. It’s an ongoing issue with the way Microsoft pushes these apps, but the fix itself is quick each time.

Problem: Registry Editor won’t open or shows an Access Denied error
Solution: You need administrator rights to make this change. Right-click the Start button, open Terminal (Admin), type regedit, and press Enter to launch Registry Editor with the right permissions.

FAQ

Does this method work on Windows 10?

The process is slightly different on Windows 10. Instead of deleting the OutlookUpdate key, you select it and create a new String value inside it called BlockedOobeUpdaters, then set its value to ["MS_Outlook"]. The registry path is the same: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsUpdate\Orchestrator\UScheduler_Oobe.

What if New Outlook is already installed on my PC?

This registry fix only blocks future installations — it won’t remove New Outlook if it’s already there. Go to Settings > Apps, search for “Outlook (new),” and uninstall it first. Then apply the registry fix to stop it from reinstalling through future updates.

Is it safe to edit the registry?

Yes, as long as you only change exactly what’s described here. Before making any registry changes, it’s a good habit to create a backup first — in Registry Editor, go to File > Export to save a copy. That way you can restore it if something goes wrong.

Will this affect classic Outlook or Microsoft 365?

No. This only blocks the new standalone Outlook app that Microsoft pushes through Windows Update. If you have the classic Outlook installed as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription, it won’t be affected at all.

Can I stop other unwanted apps from being pushed by Windows Update?

Yes — the Windows Update Orchestrator uses similar keys for other apps too. If you want a broader solution that handles multiple unwanted apps and Windows settings in one place, check out Winhance, the free Windows enhancement utility I created. It gives you much more control over what stays on your system without having to dig through the registry each time.

This post How to Prevent New Outlook Installation on Windows 11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To enable long file paths in Windows 10 or 11, open the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem, and set the LongPathsEnabled value to 1. Restart your PC and Windows will no longer cut file paths off at 260 characters.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run box
2. Type regedit and press Enter
3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem
4. Double-click LongPathsEnabled and set the value to 1
5. Click OK, close the Registry Editor, and restart your PC

Why Does Windows Limit File Path Length?

Windows has enforced a 260-character file path limit — known as MAX_PATH — since the early days of the OS. It made sense as a design choice back then, but today it causes real problems, especially when working with deeply nested folders, long project names, or software that creates complex directory structures.

One of the most common places I used to run into this was when extracting compressed archives. If you’ve ever tried to unzip a file and got an error about the path being too long, that 260-character limit is exactly what’s causing it. The fix is simple — you just need to tell Windows to lift that restriction through the registry.

This setting is available on Windows 10 version 1607 and later, and on all versions of Windows 11. Once enabled, Windows supports file paths up to 32,767 characters long, which is more than enough for any real-world use case.

How to Enable Long File Paths Using the Registry Editor

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

Press Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. If a UAC prompt appears asking whether to allow changes, click Yes to continue.

Step 2: Navigate to the FileSystem Key

In the Registry Editor, you need to get to the following path. You can click through the folders in the left panel, or paste the path directly into the address bar at the top and press Enter — that second option is a lot faster.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem

Step 3: Change the LongPathsEnabled Value

On the right side of the Registry Editor, look for a DWORD value called LongPathsEnabled. Double-click it to open it, change the value data from 0 to 1, and click OK. If the value doesn’t exist, right-click in an empty area on the right panel, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it LongPathsEnabled, and then set it to 1.

Step 4: Restart Your PC

Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC. The change won’t take effect until you do a full reboot — just signing out and back in isn’t enough. After the restart, Windows will support long file paths for any application that has been updated to use them.

Alternative Method: Using Group Policy Editor

If you’re on Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, you can also make this change through the Group Policy Editor. Press Windows key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Filesystem. Double-click Enable Win32 long paths, set it to Enabled, and click OK. This does the exact same thing as the registry edit, so use whichever method you’re more comfortable with.

Windows Home users don’t have access to Group Policy Editor, so the registry method is the only option for them. If you find yourself making a lot of registry tweaks like this and want a simpler way to manage Windows settings, Winhance is a free open-source tool I built that lets you apply many of these kinds of changes through a clean interface — no registry digging required.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: LongPathsEnabled value doesn’t exist in the registry
Solution: Right-click in the empty space on the right panel of the Registry Editor, go to New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it LongPathsEnabled exactly as written, and set the value data to 1.

Problem: Still getting “path too long” errors after making the change
Solution: First, confirm you’ve restarted your PC after the registry edit. Also keep in mind that the application you’re using needs to support long paths as well — most modern software does, but older programs may still enforce the 260-character limit on their end.

Problem: Registry Editor won’t open or access is denied
Solution: This usually means your user account doesn’t have administrator privileges. Try searching for regedit in the Start menu, right-clicking the result, and selecting Run as administrator.

FAQ

Does enabling long file paths affect all apps on my PC?

Not automatically. The registry change enables long path support at the system level, but each application also needs to be built to take advantage of it. Most modern software already does. Older or legacy apps may still hit the 260-character limit even after you’ve made this change.

Is it safe to edit the registry to enable long paths?

Yes, this is one of the safer registry changes you can make. You’re modifying a single DWORD value that Microsoft specifically designed to be toggled by users. That said, it’s always good to get comfortable with how the Registry Editor works before making any edits, so you know what you’re looking at.

Does this work on Windows 10 Home?

Yes, the registry method works on all editions of Windows 10 and 11, including Home. The Group Policy method is the only approach that’s restricted to Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

Do I have to restart my PC after enabling long file paths?

Yes, a full restart is required. Simply closing the Registry Editor or restarting an application won’t apply the change — you need to reboot for it to take effect.

Can I undo this change if I need to?

Yes. Just go back to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem in the Registry Editor, double-click LongPathsEnabled, and change the value back to 0. Restart your PC and the default 260-character limit will be restored.

This post How to Enable Long File Paths in Windows 10/11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To disable News and Interests on Windows 11 using Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Dsh, create a new DWORD 32-bit value named AllowNewsAndInterests, and set its value data to 0. Restart your PC and the feature will be fully disabled.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open Registry Editor
3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Dsh
4. If the Dsh key doesn’t exist, right-click the Microsoft folder, select New > Key, and name it Dsh
5. Right-click in the empty space on the right panel and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
6. Name the value AllowNewsAndInterests and press Enter
7. Double-click the value, set the value data to 0, and click OK
8. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

Why Disable News and Interests on Windows 11?

News and Interests is a Windows 11 feature that displays a feed of news, weather, and other content through the Widgets panel. It runs in the background and regularly connects to Microsoft’s servers to pull in that content. If you’re not using it, it’s just consuming resources and sending data to Microsoft for no benefit.

From my years running a computer repair and support business, cleaning up Windows after a fresh install was part of my daily routine. Turning off features like this was standard practice — especially on lower-spec machines where every bit of background activity adds up. It’s the same reason I’d suggest you look at disabling unnecessary background apps on Windows 11 via the registry while you’re at it.

The registry method is more effective than just hiding the Widgets button on the taskbar. By setting a policy-level registry key, you’re telling Windows to fully disable the feature rather than just making the button invisible. This approach is more persistent and holds up better across Windows updates.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. If Windows prompts you with a User Account Control popup, click Yes to allow the Registry Editor to open.

Step 2: Navigate to the Registry Path

In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Dsh. You can click through the folders in the left panel one by one, or paste the path directly into the address bar at the top of the window and press Enter to jump straight to it.

Step 3: Create the Dsh Key If It Doesn’t Exist

On most Windows 11 installations, the Dsh key won’t be there by default. If you don’t see it under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft, right-click the Microsoft folder in the left panel and select New > Key. Name it Dsh exactly as shown and press Enter.

Step 4: Create a New DWORD Value

Click on the Dsh key to select it, then right-click anywhere in the empty white space on the right side of the Registry Editor. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value from the menu. Name the new entry AllowNewsAndInterests and press Enter.

Step 5: Set the Value Data to 0

Double-click the AllowNewsAndInterests value to open its properties. Change the value data to 0 and click OK. Setting this to 0 instructs Windows to disable the News and Interests feature entirely at the policy level.

Step 6: Restart Your PC

Close the Registry Editor and do a full restart of your PC. The change won’t kick in until after a restart — simply signing out and back in isn’t always enough. After rebooting, News and Interests will no longer be active on your system.

Want to Skip the Registry Editing?

If you’d rather not go digging around in the registry, I created a free tool called Winhance — a Windows Enhancement Utility that handles tweaks like this and many others through a clean, simple interface. It was built specifically so you can apply these kinds of changes without having to touch the registry manually.

How to Re-enable News and Interests

Changed your mind? Head back to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Dsh in Registry Editor. Double-click AllowNewsAndInterests and change the value data back to 1, then restart your PC. You can also just delete the AllowNewsAndInterests DWORD value entirely to restore the default behavior.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The Dsh key doesn’t exist in the registry
Solution: You need to create it. Right-click the Microsoft folder under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies, select New > Key, and name it Dsh. Then continue with the remaining steps.

Problem: Access denied when editing the registry
Solution: You need to open Registry Editor as an administrator. Close it, then search for regedit in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.

Problem: News and Interests is still showing after making the change
Solution: Make sure you did a full restart, not just a sign-out. The policy change requires a complete reboot to take effect. If it still shows after a restart, double-check that the value data is set to 0 and not 1.

FAQ

Is it safe to edit the registry to disable News and Interests?

Yes, this is a safe change. You’re creating a policy-level registry key that Windows uses to control features — the exact same type of change IT administrators make on business computers. It won’t affect Windows stability or any other functionality on your system.

Will this change survive Windows updates?

In most cases, yes. Policy-level registry keys like this one are generally respected by Windows updates. That said, major version updates can occasionally reset things, so it’s worth checking after a big update to make sure it’s still in place.

Does disabling News and Interests also stop Windows from tracking me?

Disabling this feature stops it from running and sending content requests, but Windows still collects other types of data in the background. If you want to reduce data collection more broadly, you can also disable Windows telemetry via the registry and turn off the Windows Advertising ID to limit personalized tracking across the system.

Can I disable News and Interests without using the registry?

You can hide the Widgets button by right-clicking the taskbar and toggling off Widgets in Taskbar settings. However, this only hides the button — the feature itself is still running in the background. The registry method in this guide actually disables it at the policy level, which is a more complete solution.

Does this method work on Windows 10 as well?

Windows 10 had its own version of News and Interests that appeared in the taskbar. The registry path used in this guide is specific to Windows 11. The method for Windows 10 is different, so this guide is focused on Windows 11 only.

This post How to Disable News and Interests on Windows 11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory