Remove Copilot from Windows 11 for Privacy Gains

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.

Update: 23 Jun 2026