If you prefer an automated approach, these tools are highly regarded for their ease of use and safety features like "one-click" optimization:
If you want to manually "trim the fat" without external software, you can use the (search for services.msc in the Start menu). Common services safe for most home users to disable include: How to Disable ALL Microsoft Windows spying! FREE UTILITY! Download Windows Disable Services
: A free, portable utility that lets you disable telemetry and dozens of privacy-invasive features through simple on/off switches. If you prefer an automated approach, these tools
: A specialized tool to permanently disable or re-enable automatic Windows Updates via a simple interface. If you prefer an automated approach