Windows 11 sometimes shows ads or suggestions that can interrupt your workflow or simply annoy you. These ads often appear in notifications, on the lock screen, or within the Start menu. Fortunately, there are simple ways to reduce or completely disable these ads and notifications.
This guide will walk you through easy steps to stop Windows 11 from showing constant ads. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along. Each step is explained clearly to make the process smooth.
By turning off certain settings, you can enjoy a cleaner and less distracting Windows experience. Let’s take a look at how to do this.
We’ll start with the easiest methods and move towards more detailed options if needed.
Quick Note
Before you begin, make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes updates fix issues related to notifications.
- Check for Windows updates: Settings > Windows Update
- Have administrator access on your PC to change system settings
- Understand that some notifications are part of system features and disabling them may affect certain Windows functionalities
Step 1: Disable Suggested Content in Settings
Windows shows ads and suggestions through its “Suggested Content” feature. Turning this off is the simplest way to reduce ads.
- Click on the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to System > Notifications.
- Scroll down and find Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.
- Toggle this option Off.
Why this helps: Windows uses this setting to send you promotional content and tips. Turning it off stops most of these notifications.
Step 2: Turn Off Ads on the Lock Screen
Sometimes ads show up on your lock screen background or notifications. Here’s how to disable them:
- Open Settings and click Personalization.
- Select Lock screen.
- Under Personalize your lock screen, change the dropdown from Windows Spotlight to either Picture or Slideshow.
- Scroll down and turn off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.
Why this helps: Windows Spotlight often shows ads or promotional content. Choosing a static picture or slideshow removes that.
Step 3: Disable Tips and Suggestions in Notifications
Windows occasionally sends tips or ads through the notification center. You can turn these off here:
- Go back to Settings > System > Notifications.
- Look for the option Show me the Windows welcome experience after updates and when I sign in to highlight what’s new and suggested.
- Toggle this option Off.
Why this helps: Disabling this stops Windows from popping up new feature suggestions and ads after updates or logins.
Step 4: Turn Off Ads in File Explorer
Sometimes ads appear in File Explorer as suggestions or promotions. Here’s how to disable them:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the View tab, then select Options on the right.
- In the Folder Options window, switch to the View tab.
- Scroll down and find Show sync provider notifications.
- Uncheck this box and click OK.
Why this helps: This stops notifications from apps like OneDrive or other sync providers that may show ads or suggestions.
Alternative Method: Use Group Policy Editor (Advanced)
If you want a stronger way to block ads and suggestions and you are comfortable with advanced settings, you can use the Group Policy Editor. Note: This is only available in Windows 11 Pro or higher editions.
- Press
Windows + R, typegpedit.msc, and press Enter. - Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Cloud Content.
- Double-click Turn off Microsoft consumer experiences.
- Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.
Why this helps: This policy disables ads and promotional content built into Windows components.
FAQs
Why am I still seeing ads after disabling these options?
Some ads may be part of system updates or apps that are not controlled by these settings. Also, certain Microsoft apps like the Microsoft Store or Xbox may show promotions separately.
Can I completely remove all Microsoft ads from Windows 11?
While you can reduce most ads and suggestions, completely removing all promotional content is difficult because some are integrated at the system level.
Will turning off these notifications affect my system performance?
No, disabling ads and suggestions will not negatively impact your system. It usually helps by reducing distractions and unnecessary notifications.
Is it safe to use Group Policy Editor to disable ads?
Yes, it is safe if you follow instructions carefully. However, changes affect system behavior, so proceed only if you are comfortable with advanced settings.
What if I want to see tips and suggestions again later?
You can easily turn these options back on by reversing the steps described above in Settings or Group Policy Editor.
When Nothing Works
If you continue to see unwanted ads or notifications despite following these steps, consider:
- Running a full virus and malware scan to rule out unwanted software causing ads.
- Resetting Windows Notification settings by going to
Settings > Apps > Apps & Featuresand repairing or resetting apps that frequently show ads. - Visiting the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 notifications and ads: Microsoft Support.
- Seeking help from community forums like Microsoft Community or trusted tech forums.
Conclusion
Windows 11 ads and suggestions can be distracting, but you have multiple simple ways to disable them. Starting with turning off tips and suggested content in settings usually solves the problem for most users.
If you want more control, using advanced tools like Group Policy Editor can help. Remember to keep your system updated and check for any apps that might show separate ads.
Following these steps will create a cleaner, more focused Windows 11 experience without constant interruptions from ads and notifications.