How to Completely Disable ‘Device Usage’ via Group Policy in Windows 11

Device Usage is a feature in Windows 11 that allows users to select specific use cases for their device (such as Gaming, Family, Creativity, Schoolwork, Entertainment, or Business). Based on these selections, Microsoft tailors the operating system experience by offering personalized tips, suggesting specific apps in the Microsoft Store, and potentially altering default settings. In an enterprise or managed environment, this feature introduces unwanted variables into a standardized deployment. It encourages users to install non-business applications, clutters the interface with consumer-focused suggestions, and transmits telemetry back to Microsoft regarding how the device is intended to be used.

This guide explains how to completely disable the Device Usage feature system-wide using the Group Policy Editor in Windows 11, ensuring a consistent, distraction-free environment for all end-users.

Disable Device Usage via Group Policy

To enforce a strict block that prevents users from configuring their device usage intent and suppresses any associated prompts or tailored experiences, we must deploy an administrative template. Note that this requires Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions.

1. Log into Windows 11 with an Administrator account.
2. Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialogue box.
3. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to launch the Local Group Policy Editor.
4. In the left-hand navigation pane, strictly follow this exact path:

   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Device Usage

5. In the right-hand pane, locate the policy named Turn off device usage personalization.
6. Double-click the policy to open its configuration window.
7. Select the radio button next to Enabled. (Note: You must enable this policy to enforce the “turn off” restriction).
8. Click Apply, then click OK.

Verify the Configuration Lockdown

To enforce the change immediately across the system, open an elevated Command Prompt and execute gpupdate /force.

To verify the restriction is active, open the Windows 11 Settings app (Win + I) and navigate to Personalization. Scroll down and look for the “Device usage” menu item. It should either be completely missing or, if visible, all internal toggles (Gaming, Family, etc.) will be greyed out and locked in the ‘Off’ position with a notification stating, “Some of these settings are managed by your organization.” Furthermore, users will no longer receive pop-up notifications asking them to customize their device experience. You have successfully standardized the OS presentation.