What Is Connected User Experiences and Telemetry?
Connected User Experiences and Telemetry (often shown as DiagTrack) is a core Windows 11 service that collects diagnostic and usage data. Microsoft uses this information to gauge device compatibility, reliability, and to improve future updates.
Why It Causes Memory Spikes
The service runs in the background and activates during events such as Windows updates, driver changes, or idle maintenance windows. When triggered, it quickly allocates memory to process large amounts of telemetry data, then releases it, creating short but noticeable RAM spikes.
Key Component: CompatTelRunner.exe
CompatTelRunner.exe is the most resource‑intensive part of the telemetry stack. It scans installed apps, drivers, and system files to assess compatibility for upcoming updates. The scan reads many files, compares version data, and can consume significant memory—especially on systems with a long update history.
How to Disable the Service Safely
- Open Services (run
services.msc). - Locate Connected User Experiences and Telemetry (service name:
DiagTrack). - Right‑click, choose Properties**, set the Startup type to Disabled, and click Stop.
- Open Task Scheduler and disable any scheduled tasks that reference
CompatTelRunner.exe(e.g., “MicrosoftWindowsApplication ExperienceMicrosoft Compatibility Appraiser”). - Reboot the PC to ensure the changes take effect.
Potential Drawbacks
Disabling the service stops most diagnostic reporting, which may affect:
- Microsoft’s ability to detect compatibility issues before major updates.
- Feedback data that helps improve Windows stability.
The service does **not** interfere with Windows Update, device activation, Microsoft Defender, or core OS functionality, so everyday use remains unaffected.
Final Thoughts
If you prioritize predictable memory usage and privacy over telemetry data collection, disabling Connected User Experiences and Telemetry is an effective solution for Windows 11 memory spikes. Keep the service enabled only if you rely on preview builds, frequent troubleshooting, or want to contribute detailed usage data to Microsoft.