This is a Windows 11 Enshittification Checklist

Forced Telemetry

Ah, telemetry—the practice of collecting data about your device's use. Microsoft’s insistence on gathering this data can feel invasive, especially when many users want more control over their privacy. The good news? You can disable optional telemetry settings without too much hassle. Still, it's a pain and a burden that shouldn't be placed on users.

Preinstalled Apps

Let’s talk about that bloatware that comes preloaded on your system. You know, the apps you never asked for that seem to clutter your computer? It’s frustrating, right? Luckily, getting rid of this crapware is fairly straightforward.

Most of it can be removed in just a few clicks, but the fact it's necessary to spend the time and energy doing this is offensive.

One silver lining is that you can use a tool like Windows Toolbox to remove Microsoft's pre-installed apps quickly. I love this tool, but it's $10US.

Constant, Unpredictable Feature Updates

If you’ve noticed that Windows Updates often come with surprise features—or worse, some features disappear altogether—you’re not alone!

These unpredictable updates can disrupt your workflow and confuse you, especially when different devices have varying features on the same version, and Windows 11 Home works differently than Windows 11 Pro.

While you can tweak your update settings to minimize interruptions, finding a balance between staying secure and avoiding constant changes can be tricky.

Forced Microsoft Account Sign-ins

The push to create or sign in with a Microsoft account can feel like a nuisance, especially if you prefer to use a local account.

While some users benefit from syncing settings and files across devices, seemingly forcing users to use a Microsoft account is just wrong.

The good news? You can easily bypass this requirement and use a local account.

Forced Microsoft Edge Usage

Now, let’s address Microsoft Edge. It feels like Microsoft is really pushing this browser on us, even if we have our preferences.

Whether it’s through those pesky widgets or constant prompts to use Edge for searching, it can feel like a relentless sales pitch.

Thankfully, there are third-party utilities, like Windows Toolbox mentioned above, to help you regain some control, but it shouldn’t be this hard!

Arbitrary Hardware Requirements

Windows 11 has set some arbitrary hardware requirements that aren't actual requirements to run Windows 11, but not having them CAN limit certain functionality within Windows 11.

There are ways around this with tools like Rufus that help you bypass these restrictions.

While it’s understandable that Microsoft wants to optimize for newer technology, users should be given the choice without this hassle. That said, I'm a realist, and this is the way things are right now.

OneDrive Harassment

Speaking of frustrations, let’s not forget about OneDrive and its relentless nudges to use its folder backup feature.

Even after you’ve said no, it may enable backup without your consent. Honestly, it's better to remove it and use Dropbox.

Microsoft Office Annoyances

Finally, we can’t overlook how Microsoft Office is tied to Windows 11. It often pushes users toward OneDrive as the default save location. Constant banner notifications can get in the way, nagging us to use OneDrive.

It’s annoying, and feels downright hostile. If you’re tired of these reminders, consider exploring alternatives like LibreOffice. It’s a solid, free replacement for Word and the other Office apps, giving you more freedom without the hassle.

Moving Forward

Beyond these significant issues, there are many other annoyances, but my priority is to address the significant problems first, and the stuff that actually matters to you.

I’m committed to exploring Windows 11 further and hope to share insights on how we might reclaim our Windows experience.