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How to Remove Ads from Windows 11 File Explorer: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Distractions

Windows 11 File Explorer sometimes shows ads or suggestions that can be distracting when you’re trying to focus. These ads usually appear inside the File Explorer window, often below the ribbon or in the sidebar. They might promote apps, services, or OneDrive offers.

If you want a cleaner and distraction-free environment, it’s possible to remove these ads with a few simple changes to your system settings. This guide will walk you through each step clearly and carefully.

Removing these ads not only improves your user experience but can also help your File Explorer run more smoothly. Let’s get started with the easiest methods.

Follow the steps below, and you will learn how to remove ads from File Explorer on Windows 11 quickly and safely.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date for best compatibility with settings.
  • You will need administrator rights to change some system settings.
  • Some methods involve changing system policies or registry entries, so it’s good to back up your data beforehand.
  • If you use Windows 11 Home edition, some advanced options might not be available.

Step 1: Turn Off Suggestions in File Explorer Options

This is the simplest and safest way to reduce ads and suggestions in File Explorer. Windows often shows suggestions based on your activity, but you can disable this feature.

  1. Open File Explorer by clicking its icon in the taskbar or pressing Windows + E.
  2. Click on the three dots (···) in the top toolbar to open the menu.
  3. Select Options from the dropdown. This opens the Folder Options window.
  4. In the Folder Options window, under the General tab, look for the section called Privacy.
  5. Uncheck the box next to Show recently used files in Quick access.
  6. Also uncheck Show frequently used folders in Quick access.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

Why this matters: Disabling these settings stops File Explorer from showing suggested or promoted content based on your recent files and folders, which can sometimes include ads or app recommendations.

Step 2: Disable Tips, Tricks, and Suggestions from Settings

Windows 11 likes to show tips and suggestions, including in File Explorer. You can disable this globally to reduce distractions.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to System and then click Notifications.
  3. Scroll down to find Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.
  4. Toggle this option Off.

Why this helps: Turning off tips and suggestions stops Windows from pushing promotional content or ads, some of which appear in File Explorer.

Step 3: Use Group Policy Editor to Remove Ads (For Windows 11 Pro and Above)

If you have Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions, you can use the Group Policy Editor to block ads in File Explorer completely.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to launch the Local Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to the following path:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > File Explorer
  4. Find the policy named Turn off the advertising ID or Turn off Microsoft consumer experiences.
  5. Double-click the policy and set it to Enabled.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.
  7. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Why use Group Policy: This method blocks Windows features that show ads or promote apps, including in File Explorer, at a system level.

Step 4: Edit the Registry to Remove Ads (Advanced Users)

If you don’t have access to Group Policy Editor, you can disable ads by editing the registry. Please be careful and back up your registry before proceeding.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  2. Navigate to the following key:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionContentDeliveryManager
  3. Look for the DWORD value named SystemPaneSuggestionsEnabled.
  4. If it does not exist, right-click on the right panel, choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it SystemPaneSuggestionsEnabled.
  5. Double-click on SystemPaneSuggestionsEnabled and set its value to 0.
  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Why this works: This registry setting controls whether suggestions and ads show in File Explorer’s sidebar. Setting it to zero disables those ads.

Alternative Method: Use Third-Party Tools

If you prefer an easier route, some reputable third-party tools can disable ads and telemetry in Windows 11. These apps are designed to simplify the process but always download from trusted sources.

  • O&O ShutUp10++ – A free tool that offers granular control over Windows settings, including disabling ads.
  • Winaero Tweaker – Provides options to customize and disable various Windows behaviors.

Use these tools with caution and always create a system restore point before making changes.

FAQs

Why does File Explorer show ads in Windows 11?

Microsoft includes ads and suggestions in File Explorer to promote apps and services. These are designed based on your usage patterns and Windows settings.

Will disabling ads affect File Explorer’s functionality?

No, turning off ads and suggestions does not impact how File Explorer works. It only removes promotional content.

Can I re-enable ads later if I want?

Yes, you can revert the changes by following the same steps and enabling the settings again.

Is it safe to edit the registry to remove ads?

It is generally safe if you follow the instructions carefully. However, always back up your registry or create a restore point before making changes.

Do these methods remove all ads from Windows 11?

These steps specifically target ads in File Explorer. Other parts of Windows 11 may still show ads unless you adjust additional settings.

When Nothing Works

If ads still appear after trying the above methods, consider these options:

  • Check for Windows updates and install any pending patches.
  • Run the built-in Windows Troubleshooter for apps and system features.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 customization:
    https://support.microsoft.com/windows
  • Consider resetting Windows or creating a new user profile to rule out profile-specific issues.

Conclusion

Ads and suggestions in Windows 11 File Explorer can be distracting but are easy to remove with a few simple tweaks. Starting with turning off suggestions in File Explorer options and Windows notifications usually solves the problem for most users.

For advanced users, Group Policy and Registry edits provide deeper control to block ads completely. Always remember to back up your system before making major changes.

By following this guide, you can enjoy a cleaner, more focused File Explorer experience without unwanted distractions.

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