1 How to Completely Delete a Microsoft Account2 How to Stop Apps from Running in the Background on Windows 11 / Windows 103 How to Disable Your Webcam in Windows 11 and Windows 10
Deleting a Microsoft account will affect different services you might be using Before we go through with this, we should point out all of the services that require a Microsoft account. Deleting your account will lose you access to: Outlook, Office, Skype, Xbox/Xbox Live, OneDrive, Microsoft Store, and Minecraft. You’ll have to create a new account if you want to use these again in the future, and your data won’t carry over. If you’re totally fine with that, then there’s good news: it’s pretty easy to delete your Microsoft account. It’s not, however, instant. Technically we’ll be showing you how to deactivate your Microsoft account today, as you’ll have to wait at least 30 days before it’s scrubbed from the servers for good. Unfortunately, there seems to be no way around that, so let’s just get on with the tutorial:
How to Completely Delete a Microsoft Account
How to Stop Apps from Running in the Background on Windows 11 / Windows 10
Now that you know how to close a Microsoft account, you may want to make further tweaks to your operating system to enhance your privacy. We recommend following our guide on how to stop apps from running in the background to ensure none of your data is going to places you don’t want it. Once you remove the Microsoft account from Windows, we’ll be heading to the Microsoft site to show you how to close the Microsoft account for good. Before you do anything, however, make sure that you aren’t leaving behind anything you’re going to need later. Remember that you’ll lose all of your emails, OneDrive files, Xbox live data, Skype messages, perpetual licenses, account balance, and reward points. You should take steps to make sure these are backed up or spent where possible. You should also cancel any subscriptions, back up your OneDrive files, spend gift card money, and make sure you have your Microsoft Authenticator recovery codes. Once that’s done, follow the steps below:
How to Disable Your Webcam in Windows 11 and Windows 10
If you’re extra paranoid, you can also disable your webcam. This will make sure nobody can spy on you, whether it’s through malware or you’re scared a tech giant is watching your every move.
