Microsoft Copilot, integrated into Windows 11, can be disabled, uninstalled, or blocked to potentially improve system performance. This flexibility provides users with the choice to manage resources and functionalities based on their needs.
Methods to Uninstall Copilot
Start by removing Copilot from startup to conserve resources. Right-click the taskbar, select Task Manager, navigate to Startup apps, and disable Copilot. Alternatively, access Settings > Apps > Startup and turn off Copilot.
To uninstall the Copilot app, go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, locate Copilot, click the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall. Note that future Windows Updates might reinstall Copilot unless further actions are taken.
Blocking Future Reinstallation
To prevent Copilot from returning, use Group Policy. Press Win+R, enter gpedit.msc, and navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot. Enable the "Turn off Windows Copilot" setting.
For Windows 11 Home users, use the Registry Editor. Run regedit and go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows. Create a new key named WindowsCopilot, add a DWORD (32-bit) Value named TurnOffWindowsCopilot, and set its value to 1.
Advanced Removal and Considerations
Complete removal of Copilot may require advanced steps, as some AI components might persist. Additional Group Policy and Registry tweaks or automated scripts, like the zoicware GitHub PowerShell script, can be employed. It’s essential to review and understand the changes these scripts make, and create system restore points for safety.
While Copilot offers utility, it also poses trade-offs in memory usage and privacy. Users can assess these factors when deciding whether to keep or remove Copilot.
