HOW TO DISABLE UNWANTED ADS ON WINDOWS 11

Are you annoyed by those pop-ups, lock screen tips, or sponsored suggestions that keep showing up in Windows 11? You’re not alone! While Windows 11 is a polished operating system, it often comes with unwanted ads and recommendations scattered across its interface. Fortunately, you can easily disable most of these ads and enjoy a cleaner, distraction-free experience. Follow this guide to turn off ads on your Windows 11 PC.

1. Disable Suggestions and Ads in the Start Menu

Windows 11 sometimes shows suggested apps in the Start Menu. Here’s how to turn them off:

1. Open Settings (Windows + I)
2. Go to Personalization > Start
3. Turn off “Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more”

2. Turn Off Lock Screen Ads and Tips

Microsoft can display fun facts, tips, tricks, and even ads on your lock screen. To disable these:

1. Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen
2. Under Personalize your lock screen, choose Picture or Slideshow instead of Windows Spotlight
3. Scroll down and uncheck “Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen”

3. Stop Notifications from Showing Ads

You might see promotional notifications in the Action Center. Disable these ads by:

1. Settings > System > Notifications
2. Scroll down and uncheck “Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device”
3. Uncheck “Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows”

4. Remove Ads in File Explorer

Ads and suggestions sometimes appear in File Explorer. Turn them off by:

1. Open File Explorer
2. Click the three dots on the toolbar and select Options
3. Go to the View tab
4. Uncheck “Show sync provider notifications”

5. Disable Ads in Microsoft Apps

Some built-in apps like Microsoft Edge and the Microsoft Store may show recommendations or ads.

• In Microsoft Edge:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services
  • Turn off any unwanted promotional options
• In Microsoft Store:
  • You can’t remove all suggestions, but you can ignore them or use alternative apps.

6. Remove Suggested Content in Settings

Windows 11’s Settings app sometimes suggests features or apps.

1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > General
2. Turn off the following options:
   • “Show me suggested content in the Settings app”
   • “Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID”

7. Turn Off Ads in the Start and Taskbar

Some ad-like content appears as tips or news in the Start menu and Taskbar.

1. Open Settings > Personalization > Taskbar
2. Disable widgets if you don’t want news and interests to pop up

Final Thoughts

With these steps, you can drastically reduce—if not eliminate—unwanted ads and suggestions on Windows 11. If you want an even cleaner experience, consider using third-party tools or privacy-focused apps, but the above settings should cover most users.

Have questions or run into an ad you can’t get rid of? Leave a comment below and I’ll help you out!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!