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Start in Settings > Privacy & security to review app access and diagnostics, then open the Windows Security app to check antivirus, firewall, and device protection. Treat each control according to what it actually covers: visible app-permission lists may not include desktop apps, and some security options depend on your PC’s hardware or an administrator’s policy.
Where to find Windows 11 privacy and security controls
Open Start > Settings > Privacy & security for privacy controls such as app permissions and diagnostics. For antivirus, firewall, ransomware protection, and device-security features, open the Windows Security app and select the relevant protection category. Microsoft’s privacy settings guide and Windows Security app guide describe these as separate areas.
How to control app access to your data and devices
In Settings > Privacy & security, choose a capability such as Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, or Calendar. Review the overall access control and the individual app switches shown on that page. The overall control limits access for apps covered by that setting; an individual switch lets you manage access app by app.
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Do not assume the list covers every program. Microsoft says these privacy lists mostly apply to Microsoft Store apps; desktop apps may not appear and may handle access differently. Check a desktop app’s own permissions and privacy information as well. Microsoft explains the distinction in Windows privacy settings that apps use and App permissions.
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How to review diagnostic data and feedback
Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback. Depending on your device and account, you may find diagnostic-data choices, tailored experiences, Diagnostic Data Viewer, and a control to delete diagnostic data from the device.
Device deletion and account-level data management are different. Microsoft notes that deleting diagnostic data on the device does not delete diagnostic data associated with your Microsoft account; account-associated information is managed through the Microsoft privacy dashboard. Some controls may be unavailable or managed by an organization. Microsoft also says required diagnostic data helps keep Windows devices up to date, and the data items subject to collection may change. See Diagnostics, feedback, and privacy in Windows.
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What to check in Windows Security
Open the Windows Security app and review the protection categories shown on your PC. The app can reflect third-party security providers, so the active protections and displayed options are not necessarily identical on every device.
Virus & threat protection
Use this page to review current threats, scan history, and scan options, and to access Microsoft Defender Antivirus settings, security-intelligence updates, and ransomware protection. Microsoft describes quick, full, and offline scans. An offline scan restarts the device, so save open work before starting one. Controlled folder access can prevent unknown apps from changing files in protected folders; OneDrive recovery options are also available for ransomware scenarios. Details are in Virus and Threat Protection in the Windows Security App.
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Do not turn off real-time protection as a routine privacy measure. If a specific troubleshooting need requires a temporary change or an exclusion, understand which files or activity will no longer be checked and restore protection when the task is done.
Firewall & network protection
Select Firewall & network protection and check which network profile is active: Domain, Private, or Public. A private profile is intended for a network you trust; a public profile is for a less-trusted setting where other connected devices may be strangers. Choose the profile that reflects the network you are actually using.
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Keep Microsoft Defender Firewall on unless you have a specific, understood troubleshooting reason to change it. If it blocks an app you trust, Microsoft recommends allowing that app through the firewall rather than turning the firewall off. Exceptions and advanced rules can create risk if configured incorrectly or can stop apps from working. Microsoft warns: “Turning off Windows Firewall could make your device more vulnerable to unauthorized access.” See Firewall and network protection in the Windows Security app.
Device security, TPM, and Secure Boot
Open Device security to see which hardware-backed protections your device supports and exposes. Depending on hardware and configuration, the page may show core isolation, a security processor (TPM), Secure Boot, hardware security capability, or links to device encryption or BitLocker settings.
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TPM visibility or availability depends on hardware support and whether it is enabled in UEFI. Secure Boot helps prevent rootkits from loading at startup, but disabling it may be necessary for some hardware or operating systems. Back up your data before clearing a TPM; Microsoft explicitly cautions users to do so. Not every Windows 11 PC presents the same encryption controls or capabilities, so check the device’s Windows Security page and consult its manufacturer’s guidance. See Device Security in the Windows Security App.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do when a setting is unavailable
If Windows says a setting is managed by your organization, or a control is unavailable, a work or school administrator may be enforcing policy. Contact that administrator for help rather than trying to bypass the restriction. This can apply to privacy, diagnostic, firewall, or notification settings.
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