Windows 11 inherently monitors the position of your device. Based on the hardware setup, it processes positional information gathered from multiple sensors within the system.
When equipped with a GPS receiver, the device can achieve precise positioning. If a SIM card is present in exceptional scenarios, the OS utilizes cellular tower signal intensities for triangulation. Additionally, the system examines Wi-Fi network identifiers and the hardware identifiers of proximate routers, cross-referencing them against a global repository to establish the device's whereabouts. The external internet protocol address of the machine offers a general indication of the user's region.
Should these approaches prove ineffective, the software resorts to a predefined spot, adjustable via the Settings menu at Privacy & security > Location > Default location.
To prevent Windows and Microsoft from continuously monitoring your position, disable the location monitoring feature. This action blocks both the OS and applications from retrieving such information.
Access the Settings application, proceed to Privacy & security > Location, and switch the Location services option to Off. This measure restricts access to positional information for Windows itself and apps obtained from the Microsoft Store.
That said, traditional desktop software acquired and set up from online sources outside the Microsoft Store may independently ascertain the position, bypassing the OS's location capabilities, such as by scanning for local Wi-Fi signals.
Alternatively, maintain Location services in the On position within Settings and activate Allow apps to access your location. This setup permits individual control over which applications, displayed in the configuration, may utilize positional data. Only software from the Microsoft Store will show up in this selection.
The Allow desktop apps to access your location toggle determines if non-Store desktop programs can leverage the system's location tools. Further down, a list reveals the most recent applications to have done so.
Allow location override facilitates adjustments for devices linked to a central server through Remote Desktop. With location services enabled on both ends, the server and remote machine can employ distinct positional details.
In the Recent activity section, view applications that have lately sought positional information. Turning off Allow apps to access your location introduces the Notify when apps request location option at the page's end, enabling configuration of alerts for unauthorized access attempts by apps. Experts advise keeping this alert feature active for better security.
Further reading: All the ways Windows 11 collects data about you
This piece first appeared in our affiliated outlet PC-WELT, adapted and translated from its German version.
Roland Freist serves as an independent technology writer, specializing in Windows, software, networking, cybersecurity, and online matters.