Microsoft Copilot is one of the newest features in Windows 11, designed to bring AI assistance right into your PC. While it can be useful for some, many users find it unnecessary, distracting, or simply not worth the screen space. If you’re one of those people asking, “How do I remove Copilot from Windows 11?”, you’re in the right place.
This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to disable or completely get rid of Copilot in Windows 11, using multiple methods. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think!
Why Would You Want to Remove Copilot in Windows 11?
Before we dive in, let’s look at a few reasons why users might want to disable Copilot:
-
Resource usage – Copilot can take up system resources in the background.
-
Privacy concerns – Some users don’t feel comfortable with AI tools integrated into their system.
-
Unnecessary clutter – If you never use Copilot, it’s just another icon on your taskbar.
-
Preference for simplicity – Not everyone needs an AI assistant on their PC.
Whatever your reason, the good news is you can remove or disable it completely.
Method 1: Hide Copilot from Taskbar
The quickest way to get rid of Copilot is to remove its icon from your taskbar.
Step 1: Right-Click the Taskbar
-
Right-click on an empty space on your taskbar.
Step 2: Open Taskbar Settings
-
Select Taskbar settings from the menu.
Step 3: Turn Off Copilot
-
Under Taskbar items, toggle Copilot (preview) to Off.
That’s it—no more Copilot button on your taskbar!
Method 2: Disable Copilot Using Group Policy Editor
This method is best for Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education users.
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
-
Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Copilot Settings
-
Go to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot
Step 3: Disable Copilot
-
Double-click Turn off Windows Copilot.
-
Select Enabled and click Apply > OK.
Restart your PC, and Copilot will be disabled.
Method 3: Disable Copilot Using Registry Editor
If you’re on Windows 11 Home (which doesn’t have Group Policy), you can disable Copilot through the registry.
⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Be careful and follow steps exactly.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
-
Press Win + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Explorer Settings
-
Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsCopilot
(If the folder doesn’t exist, create it.)
Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value
-
Right-click → New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
-
Name it:
TurnOffWindowsCopilot. -
Set the value to 1.
Step 4: Restart Your PC
After restarting, Copilot will be gone.
Method 4: Uninstall Updates That Introduced Copilot
If Copilot appeared after a Windows update, you can roll back.
Step 1: Open Settings
-
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Update History
-
Navigate to: Windows Update > Update history > Uninstall updates.
Step 3: Find and Remove the Update
-
Locate the update that introduced Copilot and uninstall it.
(Keep in mind, this might also remove security fixes, so use with caution.)
Method 5: Use PowerShell to Remove Copilot
Tech-savvy users can use PowerShell commands to disable Copilot.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Admin
-
Right-click the Start Menu → Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Step 2: Run Command
Enter this command:
This will uninstall Copilot from your system.
Pro Tips to Keep Your Windows 11 Clean
-
Disable unnecessary startup apps for faster boot time.
-
Use Task Manager to keep background apps under control.
-
Regularly update Windows for security but watch for features you don’t need.
Conclusion
Windows 11 Copilot may be useful for some, but it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Whether you just want to hide the icon, disable it through Group Policy or Registry, or even remove it completely using PowerShell, you now have multiple options to get rid of it.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can reclaim your taskbar space and enjoy a cleaner, distraction-free Windows 11 experience.
FAQs
1. Does disabling Copilot remove it permanently?
No, most methods disable it, but Microsoft updates may re-enable it. You may need to repeat the steps after updates.
2. Can I reinstall Copilot after removing it?
Yes, you can reinstall it via Windows Update or re-enable it in Taskbar settings.
3. Is Copilot available in all versions of Windows 11?
No, it’s being rolled out gradually and may not be available in some regions or editions.
4. Does removing Copilot affect other Windows features?
No, disabling or removing Copilot won’t impact core Windows functionality.
5. What’s the safest way to remove Copilot without breaking Windows?
The safest method is to turn it off in Taskbar settings. More advanced methods (like Registry edits) should be done carefully.