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

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

To disable Cortana from running in the background on Windows 10 or 11, open Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windows Search, create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named AllowCortana, and set it to 0. Restart your PC and Cortana will no longer run in the background.

Quick Steps:

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

Why Disable Cortana from Running in the Background?

Even if you never use Cortana, it runs as a background process by default on Windows 10 and some Windows 11 setups. That means it’s sitting there quietly using CPU and RAM without giving you anything in return.

Working in computer repair for about 10 years, I dealt with a lot of machines that felt slow for no obvious reason. Background processes like Cortana were almost always part of the problem, especially on lower-spec systems. Disabling them was one of the first things I’d do during a setup or cleanup.

The registry method I’m covering here is more permanent than using the Settings app, which can sometimes revert after a Windows update. If you want to stop other unnecessary background apps from running too, my guide on how to disable background apps on Windows 10 and 11 using Regedit covers that with the same approach.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows key + R at the same time to open the Run box. Type regedit and press Enter. If a User Account Control prompt appears, click Yes to proceed.

Step 2: Navigate to the Correct Registry Path

Head to this path in the registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windows Search. You can expand the folders one by one on the left panel, or paste the path directly into the address bar at the top of Registry Editor and press Enter.

If you don’t have a Windows Search key at this location, right-click the Windows folder, select New > Key, and name the new key Windows Search. Then click into it before moving to the next step.

Step 3: Create the AllowCortana DWORD Value

With the Windows Search key selected, right-click anywhere in the empty white space on the right side of the window. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name the new entry AllowCortana and press Enter.

Step 4: Set the Value to 0 and Restart

Double-click the AllowCortana value. In the edit window that opens, change the value data to 0 and click OK. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC — the change won’t take effect until you do.

Want to Handle This Without Touching the Registry?

If you’d rather not manually edit the registry, I built a free tool called Winhance that handles tweaks like this through a simple interface. It lets you manage Cortana, privacy settings, background apps, bloatware removal, and a lot more — all without ever opening regedit.

While you’re at it, if you’re trying to cut down on what Windows sends back to Microsoft, my guide on how to disable Windows telemetry using Regedit pairs well with this one. It’s the same type of registry change and takes just a few minutes to do.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The Windows Search key doesn’t exist in the registry
Solution: Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows, right-click the Windows folder, and select New > Key. Name it Windows Search, then proceed to create the AllowCortana DWORD inside it.

Problem: Registry Editor won’t open or shows an access denied error
Solution: Search for “regedit” in the Start menu, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator. You need admin rights to make changes to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.

Problem: Cortana is still running after making the change
Solution: Make sure you fully restarted your PC after saving the registry edit. Signing out and back in isn’t enough — a full restart is required for this change to apply.

FAQ

Does this registry method work on both Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Yes, it works on both. Cortana is more tightly integrated in Windows 10, but it can still run in the background on certain Windows 11 setups too. The same registry path and DWORD value applies to both versions.

Will disabling Cortana break Windows Search?

No. Windows Search (searching your files, apps, and settings from the Start menu or taskbar) continues to work normally after this change. You’re only stopping Cortana’s background process, not the core search functionality built into Windows.

How do I re-enable Cortana if I want it back?

Go back to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windows Search, double-click the AllowCortana value, and change the data from 0 to 1. Restart your PC and Cortana will be re-enabled.

Will this improve my PC’s performance?

It can, particularly on older or budget machines. Cortana uses CPU and RAM as a background process, and freeing those resources up makes a difference when you’re running on limited hardware. On a high-end system the gain is smaller, but it’s still one less unnecessary process running at all times.

Is it safe to edit the registry?

Yes, as long as you follow the steps exactly and only change what’s specified. Before making any registry edits, it’s good practice to create a backup — in Registry Editor, go to File > Export to save a copy you can restore if anything goes wrong.

This post How to Disable Cortana from Running in the Background on Windows 10/11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To disable Activity History on Windows 10 and 11, open Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System, and create three DWORD (32-bit) values: EnableActivityFeed, PublishUserActivities, and UploadUserActivities — all set to 0. Once done, close Registry Editor and restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System
3. Right-click empty space > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it EnableActivityFeed, double-click it, set the value to 0, click OK
4. Create another DWORD named PublishUserActivities, set it to 0, click OK
5. Create one more DWORD named UploadUserActivities, set it to 0, click OK
6. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

What Is Activity History and Why Should You Disable It?

Activity History is a Windows feature that quietly tracks what you do on your PC — apps you open, files you work on, and websites you browse — and stores that information locally. Depending on your settings, it can also sync that data to Microsoft’s servers through your Microsoft account. It was introduced to power features like the Windows Timeline and the “Pick up where you left off” functionality in the Start menu.

Most people have no idea this is even running. Back when I was doing computer repairs and setups every day, activity tracking was one of those things that was always enabled by default and almost never discussed. If you value your privacy and don’t want Windows logging your daily activity, turning it off makes sense. It’s in the same category as disabling Windows telemetry, which stops Windows from sending usage and diagnostic data back to Microsoft’s servers.

Using the Registry Editor to make this change applies the settings as system policies, which means Windows respects them even after updates — unlike some settings in the Settings app that can get reset.

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog. Type regedit and press Enter. If a User Account Control prompt appears asking for permission to make changes, click Yes to continue.

Step 2: Navigate to the Registry Path

You need to get to this path in the registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System. You can expand the folders on the left side one by one, or click the address bar at the top, paste the path in, and press Enter to jump there directly. I’ve also left this path in the video description so you can copy and paste it easily.

Step 3: Create the EnableActivityFeed Value

Once you’re at that registry path, right-click on any empty white space in the right panel and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this value EnableActivityFeed and press Enter. Double-click the new entry, change the value data to 0, and click OK.

Step 4: Create the PublishUserActivities Value

Right-click on the empty space again and create another DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this one PublishUserActivities and press Enter. Double-click it, set the value data to 0, and click OK.

Step 5: Create the UploadUserActivities Value

Right-click one more time and create a third DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it UploadUserActivities and press Enter. Double-click it, set the value data to 0, and click OK. You can now close Registry Editor.

Step 6: Restart Your PC

Restart your computer for all three registry changes to take effect. After the restart, Windows will no longer record your activity history or upload it to Microsoft’s servers.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The “System” key doesn’t exist under the Windows folder
Solution: Right-click on the Windows folder in the left panel, select New > Key, and name it System. Then navigate into that new key and proceed to create the DWORD values inside it.

Problem: Registry Editor says “Access Denied” when trying to make changes
Solution: Close Registry Editor, search for it in the Start menu, right-click the result, and choose Run as administrator. You need admin rights to write to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE hive.

Problem: The values disappeared after a Windows update
Solution: Because these values are stored under the Policies key, they should normally survive updates. If they do get cleared, just go back to the same registry path and re-create the three DWORD values with a value of 0.

FAQ

Does disabling Activity History affect PC performance?

No, there’s no negative impact on performance. Disabling it actually stops a small amount of background processing since Windows is no longer logging and syncing your activity data to Microsoft’s servers.

Will any Windows features stop working after I do this?

The Windows Timeline and the “Pick up where you left off” feature in the Start menu will stop working because they depend on Activity History data. All other Windows features continue to work normally.

Can I re-enable Activity History if I change my mind?

Yes, absolutely. Just go back to the same registry path and either delete the three DWORD values you created, or change their value data from 0 to 1. Restart your PC and Activity History will be active again.

Does this method work on Windows 10 Home?

Yes, the Registry Editor method works on all editions of Windows 10 and 11, including Home. The Group Policy Editor is not available on Home editions, but the registry changes achieve exactly the same result and work on every edition.

Is there an easier way to do this without editing the registry manually?

If you’d rather not touch the registry yourself, you can use Winhance, a free open-source Windows enhancement utility I built that lets you manage privacy settings like this through a clean interface. It covers Activity History along with other data collection settings like the Windows Advertising ID, so you can handle everything in one place without digging through the registry.

This post How to Disable Activity History on Windows 11 & 10 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To disable hibernation on Windows 10 or 11 using the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power, create a DWORD 32-bit value called HibernateEnabled and set it to 0. Then go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FlyoutMenuSettings, create a DWORD 32-bit value called ShowHibernateOption and set it to 0 as well. Restart your PC when you’re done.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power
3. Right-click the empty white space in the right panel, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
4. Name it HibernateEnabled, press Enter, double-click it, set the value data to 0, and click OK
5. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FlyoutMenuSettings — if the FlyoutMenuSettings key doesn’t exist, right-click the Explorer folder, select New > Key, and name it FlyoutMenuSettings
6. Right-click the empty white space in the right panel, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
7. Name it ShowHibernateOption, press Enter, double-click it, set the value data to 0, and click OK
8. Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC

Why Would You Want to Disable Hibernation?

Hibernation is a power-saving feature that saves everything currently in your RAM to your hard drive and then fully shuts down your PC. When you power it back on, Windows restores your session from where you left off. That sounds pretty handy, and for some people it is — but for a lot of users, it’s more trouble than it’s worth.

The main reason to disable it is storage. Windows creates a file called hiberfil.sys to store the hibernation data, and it’s usually around 75% of your total RAM. So if you’ve got 16 GB of RAM, that file is eating up about 12 GB of your drive. On a smaller SSD, that’s a noticeable chunk of space gone for a feature you might never use.

Back when I was running the computer shop, I’d also occasionally see hibernation cause weird issues — sessions not restoring correctly, slow wake times, or Windows just behaving oddly after coming out of hibernate. Disabling it and sticking with sleep mode or a clean shutdown is often the simpler, more reliable way to go.

How to Disable Hibernation on Windows 10 and 11 Using the Registry Editor

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit into the box and press Enter. If User Account Control pops up asking for permission, click Yes. The Registry Editor paths used in this guide are also listed in the video description above so you can easily copy and paste them.

Step 2: Create the HibernateEnabled Value

In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power. You can click through each folder in the left panel to get there, or paste the path directly into the address bar at the top of the Registry Editor window.

Once you’re in that key, right-click anywhere on the empty white space in the right panel and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name the new value HibernateEnabled and press Enter. Double-click it to open it, set the value data to 0, and click OK.

Step 3: Create the ShowHibernateOption Value

Now navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FlyoutMenuSettings. This key doesn’t always exist by default, so if you can’t find FlyoutMenuSettings in the left panel, right-click the Explorer folder, select New > Key, and name it FlyoutMenuSettings.

Once you’re in that key, right-click anywhere on the empty white space in the right panel and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it ShowHibernateOption and press Enter. Double-click it, set the value data to 0, and click OK. This removes the Hibernate option from the Start menu’s power options.

Step 4: Close the Registry Editor and Restart Your PC

Once both changes are in place, close the Registry Editor. Restart your PC for the settings to take effect. After the restart, hibernation will be disabled and the hiberfil.sys file will be removed from your system drive, freeing up that storage space.

If you’d rather not dig through the Registry to manage Windows settings like this, I built a free tool called Winhance — a Windows Enhancement Utility that lets you apply and revert all kinds of Windows tweaks through a clean, simple interface, no Registry editing required.

Other Power Settings Worth Knowing About

If you’re adjusting power-related settings, a couple of other guides might be useful. If you use your PC as a home server or leave it running for downloads and don’t want your monitors switching off, I’ve put together a guide on how to stop your monitors from turning off in Windows 11. And if you ever need your PC to shut down automatically after finishing a task, check out my guide on how to schedule a shutdown in Windows 10 and 11.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The hiberfil.sys file is still on the drive after restarting
Solution: The file should be removed automatically after disabling hibernation and restarting. If it’s still there, open Command Prompt as Administrator and run powercfg -h off to force it to be deleted.

Problem: Hibernate still shows up in the Start menu power options
Solution: Double-check that the ShowHibernateOption DWORD value in the FlyoutMenuSettings key is set to 0 and that you did a full restart. If the key was missing and you had to create it, make sure it’s in the right location under Explorer.

Problem: Registry Editor says “Access is denied” when trying to make changes
Solution: Close the Registry Editor, then search for “regedit” in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator. You need elevated privileges to modify keys under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.

FAQ

Is it safe to disable hibernation in Windows 10 and 11?

Yes, it’s completely safe. Hibernation is just an optional power feature and turning it off won’t cause any harm to your system. You’ll still have sleep mode available, and you can always re-enable hibernation later by setting the registry values back to 1 or running powercfg -h on in an elevated Command Prompt.

How much disk space will I get back by disabling hibernation?

The hiberfil.sys file is usually around 75% of your total RAM. So if you have 16 GB of RAM, you’ll reclaim roughly 12 GB of disk space. On systems with 32 GB of RAM, that’s around 24 GB — which is a meaningful amount, especially if you’re running a smaller SSD.

What’s the difference between sleep and hibernation?

Sleep keeps your session stored in RAM while using a small amount of power, so your PC wakes up almost instantly. Hibernation writes everything to your hard drive and fully powers off, which uses no power but takes longer to resume. For most desktop PC users, sleep is the better option — it’s faster and more convenient.

Can I re-enable hibernation after disabling it?

Yes. Just reverse the registry changes by setting both HibernateEnabled and ShowHibernateOption back to 1, or open Command Prompt as Administrator and run powercfg -h on. Windows will re-enable hibernation and recreate the hiberfil.sys file.

Does this registry method work on both Windows 10 and Windows 11?

Yes, the registry paths are the same on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, so you can follow these exact steps on either version. The method shown in the video works on both operating systems.

This post How to Disable Hibernation on Windows 11 & 10 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory

To disable Windows telemetry in Windows 10 and 11, open Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\DataCollection, set AllowTelemetry to 0, then create the same DWORD value at a second registry path and set it to 0 as well. Restart your PC after making both changes.

Quick Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\DataCollection
3. Double-click AllowTelemetry and set the Value Data to 0, then click OK
4. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
5. Right-click in the empty space and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value
6. Name the new value AllowTelemetry, press Enter, double-click it, and set the Value Data to 0
7. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC

What Is Windows Telemetry and Why Disable It?

Windows telemetry is data that Microsoft collects from your PC and sends back to their servers in the background. This can include things like your hardware configuration, app usage, crash reports, and general system behavior. Microsoft says they use this data to improve Windows, but a lot of people just don’t want their computer sending that kind of information without knowing exactly what’s being collected.

Back when I was running my computer repair business, clients would ask me to set up their new PC as privately as possible. Disabling telemetry was always one of the first things on that list. It doesn’t break anything in Windows — everything keeps working the same way — it just stops that background data collection from happening.

Windows has several telemetry levels: Security (0), Basic (1), Enhanced (2), and Full (3). Most Windows installs default to Basic or higher. By setting AllowTelemetry to 0 in the registry, you’re locking it to the Security level, which is the minimum amount of data Windows will collect.

How to Disable Windows Telemetry Step by Step

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog. Type regedit and press Enter. If Windows asks for permission through the User Account Control prompt, click Yes to continue. The Registry Editor will open.

Step 2: Modify the AllowTelemetry Value at the First Path

Navigate to the following registry path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\DataCollection. You can copy this path directly from the video description and paste it into the address bar at the top of Registry Editor to get there quickly. Once you’re at that path, double-click on the AllowTelemetry entry and change the Value Data to 0, then click OK.

Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value at the Second Path

Now navigate to this second registry path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection. Once you’re there, right-click anywhere in the empty white space on the right side and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it AllowTelemetry and press Enter. Then double-click the new entry, set the Value Data to 0, and click OK.

Step 4: Close Registry Editor and Restart Your PC

Once you’ve made both changes, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. The telemetry settings will take effect after the restart, and Windows will be limited to the Security-level data collection going forward.

Want an Easier Way to Handle Windows Privacy Settings?

If you’d rather not go into the registry manually every time, I built a free tool called Winhance that lets you manage telemetry, privacy settings, and a whole lot more from a clean, straightforward interface. It takes care of the registry changes for you and gives you a clear picture of what’s been applied to your system — no manual editing required.

Other Privacy Tweaks Worth Doing Alongside This

Disabling telemetry is a solid first step, but it’s not the only thing running in the background on a default Windows install. Windows also runs automatic feedback sampling, which collects similar diagnostic data and sends it to Microsoft — disabling that is worth doing right after this. Another one I always take care of is the Advertising ID, which is a unique identifier Windows assigns to your account and uses to serve personalized ads across apps. Most people don’t even know it exists, but turning it off only takes a couple of minutes.

Common Issues & Solutions

Problem: The AllowTelemetry entry doesn’t exist at the first path
Solution: If the entry isn’t there, create it yourself. Right-click in the empty space, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it AllowTelemetry, and set the Value Data to 0.

Problem: The DataCollection key doesn’t exist at either registry path
Solution: You’ll need to create the key first. Right-click on the parent folder in the left panel, select New > Key, name it DataCollection, and then create the AllowTelemetry DWORD value inside it.

Problem: Access is denied when trying to modify registry values
Solution: Make sure you opened Registry Editor as an administrator. If you still get an access denied error on a specific key, right-click on it, select Permissions, and confirm your user account has Full Control.

FAQ

Does disabling telemetry break anything in Windows?

No, nothing breaks. Windows and all your apps continue to work exactly the same way. You’re just stopping the background data collection from happening. I’ve applied this tweak on hundreds of computers over the years at the repair shop and never had it cause a problem.

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 for disabling telemetry is only available on Pro and Enterprise editions, but the registry edits in this guide apply to every edition.

Will Windows reset the telemetry settings after an update?

It can happen after major Windows feature updates. Microsoft has been known to reset certain privacy settings when rolling out large updates. It’s worth checking these registry values after a big update to make sure they’re still set to 0. Using a tool like Winhance makes it easy to recheck and reapply these settings quickly.

Why are there two different registry paths for telemetry?

The first path (SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\DataCollection) is the standard Windows telemetry key that exists on most systems by default. The second path (SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection) is the policy-based override key, which takes priority over the first. Setting both to 0 makes sure the change sticks regardless of which one Windows checks.

Can I undo this change later?

Yes, easily. Go back to the same registry paths and change AllowTelemetry to 1 for Basic or 3 for Full at both locations, then restart your PC. You can also delete the value entirely and Windows will fall back to its default telemetry level.

This post How to Disable Windows Telemetry Windows 10 & 11 (Regedit) first appeared on Memory's Tech Tips and is written by memory