How to Disable Annoying Ads in Windows 11

If you've ever found yourself drowning in ads while just trying to navigate your Windows 11 experience, take heart—you're not alone! Microsoft's push to promote its products, from Xbox Wireless Controllers to the latest Call of Duty, can feel intrusive. Fortunately, there's a way for you to hit the brakes on these incessant ads, and it only takes a minute of your time. In this article, we’re breaking down the steps to claim back your peace and quiet in the cozy corners of your operating system.

The Problem with Ads in Windows 11​

So why are ads popping up everywhere? Microsoft has carved out ample real estate in Windows 11 to promote its own products and partners. Suggestions about apps, services, and even gaming peripherals sashay across the screen, sometimes at the most inopportune moments. Your lock screen, taskbar, and Start menu all seem like a canvass for marketing strategies, leaving users wondering if they bought a Windows system or signed up for a marketing seminar.

Steps to Disable Ads Through Settings​

Let’s cut to the chase. Here’s how you can quiet those ads and suggestions:

1. Open Settings: Click the Start menu, or simply press Windows + I to open the Settings.
2. Notifications: Navigate to System > Notifications.
3. Adjust Settings:
   • Expand the Additional settings section.
   • Uncheck Get tips and suggestions when using Windows.
   • Optionally, you can uncheck:
     • Show the Windows welcome experience after updates and when signed in to show what's new and suggested.
     • Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows and finish setting up this device.
4. Restart Your PC: A quick reboot will solidify those changes.

While these steps curtail the ads featuring in notifications, they don’t wipe them out entirely. You might still notice promotional content on the lock screen, in the Microsoft Store, or as suggestions scattered across the Settings menu and File Explorer.

Level Up Your Ad Blocking with Winaero Tweaker​

For those who want to take their ad-blocking efforts further, Winaero Tweaker is your friend. This is a powerful, free tool that allows users to tweak various aspects of Windows on both 10 and 11. Here’s how you can use it to turn off even more ads:

1. Download Winaero Tweaker: Grab the latest version from the official website. Choose between a standard installation or a portable version if you prefer not to clutter your system.
2. Launch the App: Run Winaero Tweaker and browse through the sidebar.
3. Navigate to Ads: Click on Behavior, then select Ads and Unwanted Apps.
4. Disable Ads:
   • Ensure Disable ads in Windows is checked.
   • Uncheck the remaining options, which are usually just distractions anyway.
5. Restart Again: To make the changes take effect, restart your PC.

Gone are the days when your desktop feels like a virtual billboard; instead, enjoy a more serene and productive environment.

The Constant Evolution of Ads​

Despite your best efforts, it’s worth noting that Microsoft may introduce ads in new locations or formats over time. This is a common tactic in the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape. However, the community is often quick to respond, and usually, methods to block or minimize those ads emerge shortly thereafter—so stay tuned!

Final Thoughts​

Have you seen ads sprouting up like weeds in your Windows 11 experience? What’s your take on Microsoft’s ad strategy? The balance between offering a robust system and relentless advertising can be delicate. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
These simple adjustments can reaffirm your control over what you see daily on your operating system. The good news is that reclaiming your Windows experience from ads is just a few clicks away. Now, go forth and enjoy your freshly de-cluttered Windows 11 environment—sans the ads!

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Source: gHacks Technology News Do this if you want to stop ads in Windows 11