Copilot is a new feature in Windows 11 that can provide you with useful guidance, advice, and shortcuts based on how you use your PC and what you prefer. However, not everyone may like Copilot or want to use it for various reasons, such as annoyance, privacy, or security.
In this article, we will teach you how to disable Copilot in Windows 11 using three different methods: using the Settings app, using the Registry Editor, and using the Group Policy Editor. These methods are suitable for different levels of technical expertise and preferences. You can pick the one that works best for you.
Table of Contents
Method 1: Removing Copilot from Windows 11 Taskbar
If you’d rather not have the Copilot icon on your Taskbar in Windows 11, you can easily get rid of it by following these steps:
- Press the Windows key and “I” on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
- In the Settings app, navigate to “Personalization,” and then click on “Taskbar.”
- Now, look for the switch or toggle next to “Copilot (preview)” and turn it off. This action will hide the Copilot icon from your Taskbar.
With this, the Copilot icon should no longer be visible on your Taskbar. You can still access Copilot by pressing the “Win + C” keyboard shortcut in Windows 11.
Method 2: Completely Disable Copilot in Windows 11 via Registry Editor
Another way to disable Copilot in Windows 11 is to use the Registry Editor. If you want to fully disable Copilot in Windows 11, you can do so through the Registry Editor. Here’s how:
- In the Windows search box, type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Copy and paste the following path into the address bar and hit Enter:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows - Right-click on the “Windows” folder and choose “New” > “Key.” Name this new key “WindowsCopilot.”
- In the right pane, right-click on an empty space, select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value,” and name it “TurnOffWindowsCopilot.”
- Double-click on the new “TurnOffWindowsCopilot” DWORD entry. Set the “Value data” to 1, and then click “OK.”
- Restart your PC. Once your computer reboots, Copilot will be completely disabled in Windows 11.
Method 3: Disabling Copilot in Windows 11 via Group Policy (For Windows 11 Pro and Higher)
If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or a higher edition, you can disable Copilot using the Local Group Policy Editor. Please note that this option is not available for Windows home users. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key and “R” simultaneously to open the Run dialog, then type “gpedit.msc” and click “OK.”
- In the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:
User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components \Windows Copilot - Look for the “Turn off Windows Copilot” setting in the right pane, double-click on it, and select “Enabled” in the new window.
- Click “Apply” and then “OK.” This action will disable the Copilot feature on your Windows 11 PC.
These methods provide an easy way to disable Copilot in Windows 11. If you’re wondering about how to uninstall Copilot, you can follow the steps from methods 2 and 3, which also apply to that purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Benefit of Using Copilot in Windows 11?
The benefit of using Copilot in Windows 11 is that it can help you use your PC more efficiently and productively. Copilot can suggest actions, shortcuts, tips, and tricks based on your usage patterns and preferences. It can also help you troubleshoot problems, optimize performance, and manage settings.
What are the Risks of Disabling Copilot in Windows 11?
The risks of disabling Copilot in Windows 11 are that you may miss out on some useful suggestions, tips, and tricks that can improve your PC experience. You may also lose some data that Copilot has collected and stored on your device and on Microsoft servers.
Can I Disable Copilot for Specific Apps or Users in Windows 11?
No, you cannot disable Copilot for specific apps or users in Windows 11. You can only disable or enable it for your entire device.
Conclusion
Copilot is a new feature in Windows 11 that can offer helpful suggestions, tips, and tricks based on your PC usage and preferences. However, some users may want to disable Copilot for various reasons, such as annoyance, privacy, or security.
This article showed you how to disable Copilot in Windows 11 using three different methods: using the Settings app, using the Registry Editor, and using the Group Policy Editor. You can also enable Copilot again if you change your mind by reversing the steps in each method.
