Microsoft's Windows 11 includes Copilot, an AI assistant, which some users find intrusive. This guide covers methods to disable or uninstall it.
Methods to Disable Copilot
- To hide Copilot: Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and toggle off the feature.
- For system-wide disable on Windows 11 Pro or higher: Run gpedit.msc and under User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot, enable 'Turn off Windows Copilot.'
- To edit the registry: Open regedit, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows, create a WindowsCopilot key, and add a DWORD TurnOffWindowsCopilot set to 1.
Backing up the registry is recommended before editing. For comprehensive removal, use PowerShell or go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps to remove Microsoft Copilot.
Enterprise and Third-Party Solutions
In enterprise settings, use Intune or Group Policy to disable Copilot across devices. Third-party tools like O&O ShutUp10++ can block Copilot with one click.
Update Considerations
Windows updates might reinstall Copilot. Disable automatic Store app updates or block Copilot-related domains with firewall rules to prevent this. Copilot's removal methods may need updates as Microsoft evolves the feature.
