Windows 11: Less freedom, more data collection
While Windows 10 already collected a lot of user data, Windows 11 takes it a step further.
Bij installatie word je verplicht om in te loggen met een Microsoft-account, zelfs op de Pro-versie. Daarmee geef je Microsoft directe toegang tot:
- your PC usage and system information,
- your search history and app activity,
- and even parts of your documents, calendar, and contacts.
This data is used for “personalization” – a fancy word for ad profiling. In other words, you pay for a license and also provide free data that Microsoft uses to sell advertisements.
Copilot: The smart spy in your taskbar
The integration of Copilot in Windows 11 seems convenient: an AI assistant that automates tasks and answers questions. But behind the scenes, Copilot constantly communicates with the Microsoft cloud. This means that everything you type or select — texts, files, settings — can be sent for “contextual analysis.”
Moreover, there have already been several security incidents:
- Copilot has unintentionally leaked internal company data during tests in Azure environments.
- The AI uses parts of Bing Chat and OpenAI’s GPT models, which rely on network connections outside your own system.
- There are still no clear boundaries or transparent logs about what is actually stored or retained.
In short: a “helper” that reads along with everything, without you having any control over the data.
Paying to be monitored
Switching to Windows 11 doesn’t just reduce your privacy – you also have to pay for it.
Nieuwe pc’s komen standaard met Windows 11-licenties, oudere hardware wordt vaak kunstmatig uitgesloten via TPM- en CPU-eisen.
Wie zijn huidige computer wil blijven gebruiken, heeft dus twee keuzes:
- Purchase additional hardware that meets Microsoft’s requirements;
- Or use a workaround with the risk of no longer receiving updates.
So you’re paying twice: with money and with your personal data.
Linux: The free and privacy-friendly choice
Fortunately, there are fully-fledged alternatives. Modern Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Zorin OS, or Fedora offer a familiar interface, excellent security, and full control over your data – without hidden tracking or mandatory accounts.
- Free to use, update, and customize.
- Compatible with thousands of applications, including Office alternatives like LibreOffice or OnlyOffice.
- More secure thanks to open-source code that is publicly reviewed.
- Ideal for both personal and business use.
EasyComp Zeeland helps with the transition
Don’t want to be tied to Windows 11 but also don’t want to lose functionality? At EasyComp Zeeland, we help you transition to a Linux environment that perfectly fits your needs. We provide:
- secure migration of all your data,
- installation and configuration of software alternatives,
- and personal guidance so you can work effortlessly the way you’re used to.
This way, you keep your files, your productivity, and your privacy – without any license costs.
Conclusion
Windows 10 may be reaching its end, but that doesn’t mean you have to remain dependent on Microsoft’s policies. With Linux, you regain freedom, security, and transparency.
strong>Stop paying to be monitored. Switch today to a reliable alternative – EasyComp Zeeland will gladly guide you every step of the way. Contact us today!
