Windows 11 uses your location for maps, weather, time zone, and Find my device. If apps show the wrong place, you can turn location services on, set a default location for when Windows cannot pinpoint you, and let Windows adjust the time zone automatically.
Quick Answer
Open Settings, Privacy and security, Location, turn on Location services, then click Set default under Default location and choose your location in Maps.
How to Change Your Laptop’s Location in Windows 11
- Open Settings and select Privacy and security, then Location.
- Turn on Location services and Let apps access your location.
- Next to Default location, click Set default, then set your location in the Maps app that opens.
- Open Settings, Time and language, Date and time, and turn on Set time zone automatically.
- Restart any app that still shows the old location.
Location-Related Settings
| Setting | Affects |
|---|---|
| Location services | Whether apps can use location |
| Default location | Used when Windows cannot detect your position |
| Set time zone automatically | Clock and time zone |
| Country or region | Store content and some formats |
Troubleshooting
- Location is still wrong: laptops without GPS estimate position from Wi-Fi, which can be off. Set a default location to help.
- Location services are greyed out: an administrator or work policy may control them.
- If the time zone is wrong, see how to change the time zone in Windows 11.
- If the weather shows the wrong city, read how to manage the weather on the taskbar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hide my location from apps?
Yes. Turn off Let apps access your location, or turn it off for individual apps in the list below.
Does a VPN change my Windows location?
A VPN changes how websites see you, not the location Windows reports to apps.
Does Find my device need location?
Yes. Location services must be on for it to work.
Summary
- Open Privacy and security, Location.
- Turn on Location services.
- Set a default location.
- Turn on automatic time zone.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.