Disable application backup data gathering ("MareBackup")
This script disables the "MareBackup" scheduled task. According to the Task Scheduler, this task gathers Win32 application data for backups. It executes "%SYSTEMROOT%\\System32\\CompatTelRunner.exe". Although this task is intended for backup and system reliability, some users may prefer limiting the amount of data collected by Windows, thus enhancing their privacy. Overview of default task statuses - "\\Microsoft\\Windows\\Application Experience\\MareBackup": | OS Version | Default status | | --...
Disable application usage tracking ("AitAgent")
This script disables the "AitAgent" scheduled task. "AitAgent" is a task that is part of the Microsoft Customer Experience Improvement Program, which aggregates and uploads Application Telemetry information if the user has opted in. This task is part of Application Experience as per its registry location ("Microsoft\\Windows\\Application Experience\\AitAgent") and VMWare's documentation. Governments of various countries, including Argentina and the United States (via VMWare), recommend disabling th...
Disable compatibility adjustment data sharing ("SdbinstMergeDbTask")
This script disables the "SdbinstMergeDbTask" scheduled task. The 'SdbinstMergeDbTask' task merges pending shim application compatibility databases, as described in Task Scheduler (Windows 11 22H2), facilitating the running of older software on newer Windows versions. According to Task Scheduler (Windows 11 22H2), the task utilizes the "sdbinst.exe" tool. This tool is known as the "Application Compatibility Database Installer". It is part of the Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT). It allows...
Disable program data collection and reporting ("ProgramDataUpdater")
This script disables the "ProgramDataUpdater" scheduled task. This component collects and transmits Application Telemetry information for participants in the Microsoft Customer Experience Improvement Program. Running this script improves privacy and security by limiting data transmission, making it suitable for high-security environments. Recommendations to disable or delete this task have been voiced by both the Polish and Argentine governments. Microsoft acknowledges this task as non-essential...
Disable software compatibility updates ("PcaPatchDbTask")
This script disables the "PcaPatchDbTask" scheduled task. "PcaPatchDbTask" is responsible for periodically updating a specific database that tracks software known to have compatibility issues. When users run a program listed in this database, Windows' Program Compatibility Assistant (PCA) will notify them and suggest a solution to address the compatibility problem the next time the program is started. By keeping this database updated, the PCA can consistently recognize and remedy compatibility c...
Disable startup application data tracking ("StartupAppTask")
This script disables the "StartupAppTask" scheduled task. This task checks auto-start programs at boot-up and alerts if there are excessively many. By disabling this task, you can speed up your computer's startup time and reduce unnecessary data collection. Microsoft itself suggests turning it off to optimize system performance and reduce data collection. Overview of default task statuses - "\\Microsoft\\Windows\\Application Experience\\StartupAppTask": | OS Version | Default status | | ------...