How Can You Permanently Remove Annoying Copilot from Windows 11?

Why Is Windows 11 Copilot Slowing Down Your Computer and How to Stop It?

Windows 11 came with a new helper called Copilot. It sits in your taskbar. It pops up when you right-click. Many people don’t want it there.

Some folks worry about their private stuff. Others find it slows down their computer. Maybe you just don’t like AI helpers watching what you do. That’s okay. You can turn it off.

Why People Turn Off Copilot

Copilot runs in the background all the time. This uses up computer power. Your machine might run slower because of it.

The AI feature also connects to the internet. It sends data to Microsoft servers. Some people don’t feel comfortable with this.

Plus, it’s easy to click on Copilot by mistake. This can interrupt your work. Getting rid of it makes your computer cleaner and faster.

Method 1: Remove Through Windows Settings

This is the easiest way to get rid of Copilot. Most people should try this first.

1. Press the Windows + I at the same time to open Settings
2. Click on “Apps” in the left menu
3. Click “Installed Apps“
4. Type “Copilot” in the search box or scroll down to find it
5. Click the three dots next to Copilot and pick “Uninstall“

This method works for your user account only. Other people who use your computer might still see Copilot. Also, Windows updates might bring it back later.

Method 2: Edit the Registry (More Permanent)

The registry is like your computer’s memory bank. Changing it can stop Copilot from showing up in right-click menus.

Warning: Be careful with this method. Make a backup first. Wrong changes can hurt your computer.

Steps to Edit Registry:

1. Press Windows + R, type “regedit“, hit Enter to open Registry Editor
2. Find this path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows

3. Right-click “Windows“, pick “New“, then “Key“, name it “WindowsCopilot“
4. Click your new folder, right-click in the empty space, pick “New“, then “DWORD (32-bit) Value“
5. Call this new item “TurnOffWindowsCopilot“
6. Double-click your new setting, change the number to 1
7. Close everything and restart your computer

After this, Copilot should disappear from your right-click menu and taskbar.

Method 3: Group Policy (For Business Computers)

If you have Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use Group Policy. This method works for everyone who uses the computer.

Group Policy Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type “gpedit.msc“, hit Enter to open Group Policy
2. Navigate: Go to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot
3. Double-click “Turn off Windows Copilot“
4. Pick “Enabled” (this turns OFF Copilot)
5. Click “Apply” then “OK“
6. Restart your computer

This method stops Copilot for all users on the computer. It’s perfect for offices or shared computers.

Method 4: Block Edge Connection (Advanced Users Only)

Copilot needs Microsoft Edge to work. You can block this connection, but it might cause problems.

Warning: This method can break other things. Only try it if you know what you’re doing.

1. Find Edge: Go to C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\
2. Look for “msedge.exe“
3. Right-click it, pick “Properties“, go to “Security” tab
4. Take away all permissions

This stops Copilot from using Edge. But it also stops you from using Edge normally. You might need help from a computer expert to fix problems.

What to Do If Copilot Comes Back

Windows updates sometimes bring Copilot back. Here’s what to do:

• Check after updates: Look for Copilot after Windows updates
• Repeat the steps: Use the same method you used before
• Make a backup: Save your registry settings so you can restore them quickly
• Use multiple methods: Try both registry and Group Policy if one doesn’t work

Tips for Different Windows Versions

Windows 11 Home users: Use the registry method. You don’t have Group Policy Editor.

Windows 11 Pro/Enterprise users: Group Policy works best for you.

Multiple users: You might need to disable Copilot for each person separately.

Keep Your Computer Safe

Before making big changes:

• Back up your registry: Export it to a file first
• Make a restore point: Windows can create one for you
• Write down what you did: Keep notes in case you need to undo changes

Turning off Copilot makes your computer run cleaner. You won’t see pop-ups or accidental clicks. Your private information stays more private too.

The registry method works best for most people. It’s permanent and doesn’t need special Windows versions. Group Policy is good for business computers.

Remember, Windows updates might turn Copilot back on. Check your computer after big updates. You can always repeat these steps to keep it off.

Your computer should feel faster and less cluttered without Copilot running in the background. You’ll have more control over what programs run on your machine.