Desktop apps access data differently than Microsoft Store apps. They don’t use Windows privacy permission prompts and don’t appear on privacy settings pages where you manage app access to data. As a result, Windows privacy settings don’t control how desktop apps access personal data on your device.
What are desktop apps?
They can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store, downloaded from the internet, or installed with some type of media (such as a CD, DVD, or USB storage device). They're opened using an .EXE, .MSI, or .DLL file, and they typically run on your device, unlike web-based apps (which run in the cloud).
Why do some apps in the Microsoft Store say "Provided and updated by" the app's developer?
Apps that have this label are downloaded from the developer's website and updated by the developer, instead of being updated through the Microsoft Store.
How desktop apps relate to Windows privacy settings
Windows privacy settings let you control which apps can access certain capabilities (like location, camera, or microphone). Desktop apps don’t always show up in those lists, and some settings might not affect them.Â
To manage what a desktop app can access:
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Read the app’s privacy policy to understand how it collects and uses personal data stored on your device.
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Check the app’s own settings. Many desktop apps provide options that let you control data access.
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Install apps only from sources you trust. This can reduce the risk of unwanted data access.
Note:Â There are different levels of exceptions for how a desktop app can access and use personal data beyond the privacy controls available in Windows.
Location
Even if you turn off device location in Windows, some third‑party apps and services can still estimate your location by using other signals (such as Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, or cellular).
Microsoft requires third‑party developers who publish apps in the Microsoft Store (or build apps using Microsoft tools) to respect Windows location settings unless you’ve given any legally required consent to allow the developer to determine your location.
If you want more comprehensive protection for location data, you can consider turning off radio-based components (such as Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or GPS). Keep in mind that doing this can affect experiences like calling (including emergency calling), messaging, internet access, and connecting to peripherals.
Camera, Microphone, and other privacy settings tied directly to a peripheral device
Some desktop apps might not be affected when you turn off certain privacy settings. For example, if an app installs a driver, it could interact directly with camera or microphone hardware and bypass Windows’ ability to control access.
If you want more comprehensive protection for these devices, consider disconnecting or disabling the device (for example, disable the camera or microphone).
Other privacy settings
For other privacy settings not mentioned above, there are no steps you can take to ensure desktop apps do not access personal data without your awareness unless you choose not to install or use the app.
