An excellent analysis would compare this to modern Windows:
| Feature | Windows 8.1 / 2012 R2 | Windows 11 (current) |
|--------|----------------------|----------------------|
| Telemetry during install | Basic (CEIP optional) | Required "Required Diagnostic Data" even in setup |
| Privacy statement link | Static LinkId=302281 | Dynamic, always newest |
| Server installation data | Very minimal by default | More verbose unless explicitly disabled via unattend.xml |
Not all installation features are local. The privacy statement explicitly lists:
During the initial installation of Windows 8.1 or Windows Server 2012 R2, the Setup program sends basic information to Microsoft, including: An excellent analysis would compare this to modern
The privacy statement clarifies that this data is pseudonymized and not used to identify an individual user. However, for Server 2012 R2 installations in highly regulated industries (finance, healthcare), administrators are advised to review the "Basic vs. Enhanced Telemetry" options available via Group Policy.
If your organization is subject to GDPR (EU General Data Protection Regulation), CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), or HIPAA, you must demonstrate that you have reviewed the privacy statement for each software component in use. The Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2 privacy statement for installation features key link serves as the binding legal document defining:
Print or download a PDF of the privacy statement using the key link above and store it with your system image documentation. The privacy statement clarifies that this data is
Finding the original specific statements is difficult as Microsoft archives them. However, here are the key links for review:
Perhaps the most critical feature cited in the privacy statement, Windows Update transmits:
Key excerpt from the privacy statement (via the link above): “When you use Windows Update, information about your device, such as the version of Windows, the processor type, and certain device identifiers, is sent to Microsoft to determine which updates to offer. No file content or personal documents are ever sent.” Print or download a PDF of the privacy
When installing these operating systems, specific features require acceptance of privacy terms that differ from previous versions (like Windows 7).
During Windows 8.1 clean installation or first boot, you are presented with Express Settings or Customize. Express Settings enables the following data-sharing features by default:
Privacy note: Choosing “Customize” allows you to disable each of these individually before the OOBE (Out-of-Box Experience) completes.