How to Enable or Disable Quiet Hours in Windows 11

If you’re tired of constant notifications interrupting your workflow or downtime, Windows 11 has a feature designed just for you: Quiet Hours. Microsoft now calls it “Focus Assist,” but the idea remains the same—block out distractions when you need to concentrate.

Here’s how to quickly turn Quiet Hours (Focus Assist) on or off in Windows 11:

What is Quiet Hours / Focus Assist?

Quiet Hours (now called Focus Assist) lets you choose which notifications you see and hear, so you can stay focused when it matters. You can turn it on manually or set it up to kick in automatically during specific times, when you’re duplicating your display, or when you’re gaming.

How to Enable Quiet Hours (Focus Assist) in Windows 11

Method 1: Use the Quick Settings Menu

1. Click the Network, Volume, or Battery icon in the bottom right corner of your screen to open the Quick Settings menu.
2. Click on “Focus Assist.”
   • If you don’t see it, click the pencil icon to edit your quick settings and add Focus Assist.
3. Select your preferred mode:
   • Off: Get all notifications.
   • Priority Only: See only notifications from your priority list.
   • Alarms Only: Hide all notifications except alarms.

Method 2: Use Windows Settings

1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
2. Go to System > Focus Assist.
3. Choose your mode: Off, Priority only, or Alarms only.
4. (Optional) Customize rules for when Focus Assist turns on automatically, like during certain hours or while gaming.

How to Disable Quiet Hours (Focus Assist)

1. Go back to the Quick Settings menu or Settings > System > Focus Assist.
2. Set Focus Assist to “Off.”
3. You’ll start receiving all notifications as usual.

Pro Tips

• See What You Missed: When Focus Assist ends, Windows shows you a summary of what notifications you missed.
• Customize Your Priority List: You can control which apps and contacts can break through Quiet Hours by editing your priority list in the Focus Assist settings.

Final Thoughts

Focus Assist (Quiet Hours) in Windows 11 is your friend when you want to cut out the noise and get stuff done. Turning it on or off is quick and simple—use it whenever you need peace and quiet.

Have any other Windows 11 tips you want to know about? Drop your questions in the comments!

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!