Allow Diagnostic Data
The `AllowTelemetry` registry value controls how much Windows diagnostic data is collected and sent to Microsoft.
since 0.9.8.11
Purpose
Show registry keys (2)
HKLM\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection\AllowTelemetryHKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection\AllowTelemetry
The AllowTelemetry registry value controls how much Windows diagnostic data is collected and sent to Microsoft. It is a REG_DWORD value representing the corresponding policy setting in Computer Configuration or User Configuration.
The value data has the following meanings:
0– Diagnostic data off. Windows sends no Windows diagnostic data.1– Required diagnostic data. Windows sends the minimum device, quality, compatibility, and usage data that Microsoft defines as necessary to keep Windows secure, up to date, and operating as expected.2– Enhanced diagnostic data. This legacy intermediate level applies only to Windows 10 version 1809 and earlier, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019. It is unavailable on Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022.3– Optional diagnostic data. In addition to required diagnostic data, Windows may send more detailed device, configuration, activity, and error information, including diagnostic logs and crash dumps.
The policy applies to Windows and to features and apps considered part of the operating system. It does not govern diagnostic data collected independently by installed third-party software or by other Microsoft products such as Microsoft 365 Apps.
Notes
Additional effects
A level enforced by this policy prevents users from selecting a less restrictive diagnostic-data level in the Settings app. On Windows 10 version 1803 and later, users can still select a more restrictive level unless the separate policy controlling the diagnostic-data opt-in user interface prevents that change.
If settings from both HKLM and HKCU apply, Windows uses the more restrictive setting.
Security
Higher collection levels increase the range of information transmitted to Microsoft. Optional diagnostic data can include application and browser activity as well as enhanced error reports. Crash dumps may unintentionally contain user content or personal data held in memory, such as fragments of an open document or webpage.
A value of 0 stops only the Windows diagnostic data covered by this policy. It does not block other Windows connections to Microsoft services or data collection performed by separately installed applications.
Possible side effects
When diagnostic data is turned off, information about Windows Update failures is not sent. This does not disable Windows Update itself, but it reduces the information available to Microsoft for investigating and correcting update problems.
Organizational features and services that process Windows diagnostic data can receive the required device information only when the diagnostic-data level on which they depend is enabled.
Notes
On Windows 10 version 1809 and earlier and on Windows Server 2019, the policy was named “Allow Telemetry.” The current “Required diagnostic data” and “Optional diagnostic data” levels were previously called “Basic” and “Full.”
If the policy value is absent or the policy is disabled, Windows sends required diagnostic data and allows the user to choose whether optional diagnostic data is sent through the Settings app.
Microsoft documentation
Microsoft Learn: System Policy CSP – AllowTelemetry
Microsoft Learn: Configure Windows diagnostic data in your organization