Once the installation completes, administrators can enforce strict privacy boundaries across the network using Group Policy Objects (GPOs):
| Feature / Category | Primary Data Collection Purpose | Configuration / Control | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Sends information about your PC to Microsoft to reduce software piracy | Essential OS function; volume licensing options (KMS, MAK) for enterprises | | Microsoft Account | Syncs settings and signs you into apps; asks for geographic region and date of birth | Option to use a local account instead; configure sync settings | | Dynamic Update | Checks for and downloads new setup files/drivers during OS installation | Prompt appears during interactive install; can be controlled via answer file | | Error Reporting | Sends information about software errors to Microsoft to help improve products | Can be configured or disabled via Group Policy | | Plug and Play | May send standard computer information when checking for compatible drivers | Managed via Group Policy | | Sync Settings | Synchronizes your Windows settings across devices when using a Microsoft account | Can be turned off or individually configured in PC Settings | 🛡️ Privacy Tips for Administrators
When installing these operating systems, specific features require acceptance of privacy terms that differ from previous versions (like Windows 7). Once the installation completes
For server administrators, the privacy statement is particularly relevant when using > Add roles and features > Specify alternate source path . If you point to Windows Update instead of a local path, Server 2012 R2 transmits: volume licensing options (KMS
During the initial installation of Windows 8.1 or Windows Server 2012 R2, the Setup program sends basic information to Microsoft, including:
Note: This link typically redirects to the consolidated Microsoft Privacy Statement, which covers legacy products under its overarching terms. 🛡️ Privacy Tips for Administrators