What Is a Global Device Identifier in Windows, and Should You Disable It?

Microsoft came under the spotlight in 2026 as users realized their data was being continuously collected via a Global Device Identifier (GDID) to associate online activity with a particular Windows installation. This identifier is nothing new, but most users didn’t realize that their device usage, telemetry, and even location are logged and sent to Microsoft periodically.

While you can’t fully disable the GDID, there are ways to limit it and have tighter control over what data you send to Microsoft.

What Is the Global Device Identifier in Windows?

Microsoft uses a persistent identifier for Windows installations called the GDID, or Global Device Identifier. This Windows device identifier is called the GDID, Global Device ID, or Global Device Identifier. Instead, it is tied to a specific Windows installation and can be used to recognize that installation across certain Microsoft services and scenarios. The identifier remains consistent across Windows updates, but reinstalling Windows generates a new GDID.

The GDID collects data on how the device is used, what accounts are used on it, and where it connects to the internet. Microsoft can share this data with authorities, when necessary, to help manage instances of cybercrime.

In July 2026, the Department of Justice announced that a 19-year-old alleged member of Scattered Spider had been extradited from Finland to the United States to face federal charges. The DOJ says the group has been involved in more than 100 network intrusions, resulting in over $100 million in ransom payments and millions more in damages. Microsoft records associated with a GDID helped investigators link a Windows installation to online activity and IP addresses connected to the suspect. This information was one part of a wider investigation that also involved records from other online services and accounts.

Can I Disable GDID on Windows?

If you’re concerned about Microsoft gathering your usage data, you may be wondering how to disable the Global Device Identifier. There’s currently no way to disable the GDID directly from Windows, which is deliberate, as Microsoft needs the diagnostic and usage data from these identifiers. However, you can effectively limit what data is sent to Microsoft.

Step 1. Go to Settings. You can search for this in the Start menu or use the quick function: WIN + I.

Step 2. Select Privacy & security from the left-hand menu.

Step 3. Click Diagnostics & feedback and look for the option Send optional diagnostic data. If this setting is enabled, Windows sends additional diagnostic information to Microsoft. Click the toggle to turn it off and limit the amount of optional data you send.

Some users have resorted to third-party apps to limit or block the GDID. However, it’s worth noting that third-party apps not licensed by Microsoft may damage your computer. Similarly, it is possible to make short-term changes to the GUID in the Windows registry. There is still no permanent way to disable the identifier by doing this, though, and you may impact other critical Windows features.