Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 Privacy Statement for Installation Features

The primary official document covering this specific topic is the . This paper details the data collection and usage practices for features you can configure during the setup and initial configuration of these operating systems. Key Installation & Setup Features

: Information on how you interact with apps and features, including error reports (crash dumps). How to Configure Privacy Post-Installation

In conclusion, the privacy statements for these operating systems highlight a move toward transparency, giving users the ability to opt-out of data-heavy features during the very first moments of the installation process.

Here is a breakdown of the key privacy features and settings mentioned in the privacy statement for installation and setup.

When you first boot into the installation media for either Windows 8.1 or Server 2012 R2, the system presents several "privacy-impacting" features you can control before reaching the desktop.

• For Server 2012 R2, install only the required roles/features to reduce telemetry surface; keep servers in workgroup or domain as required by policy.

During the initial installation and setup phases, several features interact with Microsoft's servers to ensure system integrity and functionality: Activation