Forum Discussion
What does OneSettings really do and how does it differ from Windows Update?
Hi!
So, in my quest to debloat, enhance privacy, decrease the amount of background processes and improve usability, and in particular to avoid that Windows keeps installing stuff that I don't want (apps, optional components, older drivers), I came across the option to disable OneSettings downloads in the "data collection and preview builds" in gpedit.
The description says If you disable or don't configure this policy setting, Windows will periodically attempt to connect with the OneSettings service to download configuration settings.
But, WHICH configuration settings?
To configure what?
And how does it differ from the things that Windows Update installs specifically for my system (like drivers etc)?
1 Reply
Great question! OneSettings is a backend service Microsoft uses to push configuration settings, experiments (like A/B features), UI tweaks, and feature flags—not full updates or drivers. It’s different from Windows Update, which handles OS updates, drivers, and security patches. Disabling OneSettings can help reduce random UI changes or pre-installed stuff you didn’t ask for.
