Microsoft Edge Diagnostic Data Collection: What You Need to Know

What does Microsoft Edge collect?​

• Required Diagnostic Data:
• Necessary to keep Edge secure, up to date, and performing properly.
• Collected even if you opt out of optional diagnostic data.
• Optional Diagnostic Data (if you enable it):
• Usage of browser features
• Performance data (e.g., site load times, memory usage)
• Websites you visit (URLs, titles, access method, page navigation info, etc.
• Crash reports
• This data helps improve Microsoft products/services, including testing new features.

Privacy Commitment​

• Microsoft practices information minimization, collecting only what is needed and storing it only as long as necessary.
• Data is used for security, performance, and relevance for all users—not for profiling individuals.

Controlling Data Collection​

• Windows 10: Go to Start → Settings → Privacy → Diagnostics & feedback
• Windows 11: Start → Settings → Privacy & security → Diagnostics & feedback
• Other platforms: In Edge, go to Settings and more → Settings → Privacy, search, and services → Privacy → turn on/off “Send optional diagnostic data to improve Microsoft products”

Apps Using Edge as a Web Platform​

• Other Microsoft or third-party apps might use the Edge web engine (e.g., for streaming)
• For these, diagnostic data is still sent to Microsoft; control depends on your Windows diagnostic data setting

Special Note for Older Windows Versions​

• On Windows 7/8.1, only required diagnostic data is collected by Edge.

Summary​

• You can limit optional diagnostic data collection, but required data is always collected for security and reliability.
• Optional settings affect feature, performance, and website visit data.
• All data is used in aggregate for product and service improvements.