Run Windows 10 locally with no internet or updates enabled.
Run Windows 10 locally with no internet or updates enabled.
I'm sorry, but it seems this conversation isn't about avoiding internet connections. It looks like someone might be mixing things up. Microsoft did update telemetry between Windows 10 and later versions, so running Windows 7 is just as valid as using Windows 10.
I understand you're looking for ways to disconnect from the internet without using Wi-Fi. You mentioned considering options like using a virtual machine, dual booting into Linux, or other alternatives. If you're unsure about these steps, that's okay—just let me know. I'm here to help if something else comes up. I was hoping for an update to Windows 7 that I could install without seeing it or being logged in, since many changes require significant updates. If you have the update number for this backport, I can check whether it was applied.
The VPN service claims it doesn’t record your activity, so no data will be stored about you. The ISP won’t see any of your traffic once the VPN is active. Your computer connects to the VPN, then to the VPN provider, and finally to the internet. The VPN functions like a protected server tunnel.
You're confused about how the VPN works. It doesn't connect directly to the internet; it uses an ISP. Your PC connects to a VPN client, then to your ISP, which links to the VPN server. Because everything is encrypted, your ISP can't see your data. The issue is that for websites and services to work, they need to decrypt the connection, which must go through your VPN's ISP. Even if the VPN isn't tracking you, every site, search engine, and browser you use will still collect your information.