Windows 11 Diagnostics: Review the Optional Data Choice
On Windows 11, open Settings → Privacy & security → Diagnostics & feedback to review optional diagnostic sharing. The setting concerns diagnostics, not every app permission or cloud service.
On this page
Inspect and record the choice
- Note the Windows build and open Diagnostics & feedback. Take a screenshot of the options shown.
- Decide whether to contribute optional diagnostic data and change that control only.
- Leave the page and reopen it to check the retained value. Record whether the setting is editable or managed.
- Review any diagnostic-data deletion or viewing options as separate operations; changing future sharing is not the same as erasing earlier records.
When the control is managed
A workplace or school policy can determine what is editable. Ask the policy owner what applies rather than forcing an old registry value. On a personal computer, also consider whether another configuration utility has created a policy.
Keep the verification honest
A saved toggle proves that a configuration value is displayed. It does not establish which packets left the PC or the retention policy of every service. For a practical record, keep the preference screenshot separate from any network observation and do not label either a complete privacy audit.
Questions and answers
Does optional diagnostics include the required category?
Microsoft describes optional diagnostics as including required diagnostic data as well as additional information.
Is changing diagnostics a way to deny camera access?
No. Camera access is controlled in the separate camera permissions area.