A few years ago, Windows introduced Cortana. This is a vocally operated assistant: their answer to Google's Alexa and Apple's Siri. But Cortana didn't take off the like its peers. Instead, this assistant sits on our computers, collecting data and burdening the system resources without giving much in return. Most users don't use it daily as it is inefficient, and Windows took note of that: on their newest update, Windows 11, Cortana is much easier to disable. Let's see how we disable the program for good.
Safety First
Before making any major changes to your computer we would suggest creating a system restore point so that any damage can be undone. Here's how:
On your search bar in the lower right corner, search "system restore". Pick create a restore point. Click Configure > Turn on system protection > Apply > Ok > Create > Name the file the current date.
If there's no harm done to your computer you won't need to access your restoration file. Better leave it untouched as it will restore your computer to the way it was the day you created the system restoring point.
If you need to restore it though, here's how to access the system restoration file:
On your search bar in the lower right corner, search "system restore". Pick create a restore point. Click System restore > Next > pick your file> Click Next.
How to Remove Cortana
On Windows 10 Home
There are multiple ways to do it, depending on your computer use and tech expertise. We suggest the simplest way:
To only hide Cortana from the taskbar without deleting it:
Right-click on the Taskbar at the bottom of the screen>Click Show Cortana. Now it's out of sight!
To disable Cortana entirely:
Right-click on the Taskbar at the bottom of the screen > Click Task manager > More detail > Go to Startup tab > Choose Cortana > Disable.
This video demonstrates:
On Windows 11
On this version of Windows Cortana isn't an integral part of the operating system as it was in previous versions.
To prevent Cortana from running when you start the computer:
Right-click on Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & Features > Either scroll till you find Cortana or search in the search bar> Click the 3 dots icon > Advanced options> Scroll down to Runs at Log-in > Toggle off.
To disable Cortana entirely:
Right-click on the Taskbar at the bottom of the screen> Click Task manager > More detail > Go to Startup tab > Choose Cortana>Disable.
This video demonstrates:
H/T: Tom'sGuide.
