If you’ve been using Windows for years, you might think you know your way around it. But under its polished interface lies a labyrinth of lesser-known features, privacy-invading settings, and powerful tools that Microsoft quietly tucks away from the average user.
Today, we're lifting the veil.
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1. Microsoft Collects More Data Than You Think
Windows isn’t just your OS—it’s also your personal reporter. From app usage to error tracking, Windows gathers data non-stop, even when you think you’ve opted out. You can disable a good chunk of it through:
- Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback
But here’s the twist—some telemetry still runs in the background. If you want a true data blackout, tools like ShutUp10 or deep registry edits are your best bet. Why so sneaky, Microsoft?
2. Unlock the “God Mode” Control Panel
Yes, it’s real. There’s a hidden power-user menu in Windows that consolidates virtually every system setting into one place. To activate it:
1. Right-click your desktop > New > Folder
2. Name it:
GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}
3. Hit Enter.
Voilà—you now have access to hundreds of settings. Why this isn't visible by default is anyone’s guess.
3. Stop Forced Restarts from Windows Updates
Ever lost unsaved work because Windows updated out of nowhere? Same. By default, Windows gives itself permission to restart whenever it pleases. But you can change that:
- Go to Windows Update Settings
- Click Advanced options
- Toggle OFF "Restart this device as soon as possible"
Control should be in your hands, not the system’s.
4. Run Virtual Machines Natively (No Third-Party Tools Needed).
Why download third-party virtualization software when Windows already has its own, hidden Hyper-V platform? Here’s how to enable it:
- Search: Turn Windows features on or off
- Enable: Windows Hypervisor Platform
- Restart your PC
Now you can run other operating systems inside Windows—great for testing, development, or just nerdy fun.
5. Your PC Doesn’t Fully Shut Down
Think your PC powers off completely when you click “Shut Down”? Think again. Thanks to Fast Startup, parts of your system stay in a hibernation-like state. This speeds up boot time but can cause:
- Driver bugs
- System errors
- Background processes staying alive
To turn it off:
- Search: Choose what the power buttons do
- Click: Change settings that are currently unavailable
- Uncheck: Turn on fast startup
Now, when you shut down, it really shuts down.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your PC
Windows is a powerful OS, but many of its deeper tools—and even its invasive practices—are hidden by design. Whether it’s controlling updates, protecting your data, or accessing powerful utilities like God Mode and Hyper-V, now you know where to look.
Ready to unlock more hidden tech tricks?
Join our community of curious minds who want more control over their digital life. Subscribe to the TechWithBenam blog, leave a comment with your favorite hidden feature, and share this with a fellow Windows user who needs to know the truth.