Stop Windows 11 Ads: 9 Simple Tweaks for a Cleaner Experience

Let’s face it, folks—if there’s one thing that irks Windows users more than a surprise update at midnight, it’s the relentless barrage of ads and promotional content infiltrating our beloved operating system. Ever since the introduction of Windows 11, Microsoft has poured more ad-laden content into the user experience, turning our once-sleek interfaces into glorified billboard spaces. But fear not! You can reclaim some semblance of control over your digital environment by tweaking a few settings. Below, we’ll walk you through a proactive journey to silence those ad annoyances for good.

1. Shut Down Start Menu Ads​

Ah, the Start Menu—the gateway to your PC, and sometimes a gateway for unsolicited app recommendations. Microsoft loves to fill it with "Recommended" options that you didn’t ask for. To put an end to this:

• Navigate to:
  Settings > Personalization > Start
• Toggle Off:
  “Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more.”

With just a flick of a switch, you've just muzzled one of the most persistent ad streams.

2. Ditch Notification Ads​

If the sound of pop-up notifications sends shivers down your spine, here’s how to silence those nagging ads disguised as alerts:

• Navigate to:
  Settings > System > Notifications
• Uncheck:
  “Get tips and suggestions when using Windows,” “Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows,” and “Show the Windows welcome experience after updates.”

Once done, your notifications will be free from Microsoft’s marketing speak.

3. Stop Suggested Ads in Settings​

Let’s be honest, do you really need Microsoft’s "suggestions" for features when you open Settings? Didn't think so.

• Navigate to:
  Settings > Privacy and Security > General
• Toggle Off:
  “Show me suggested content in the Settings app.”

This will help streamline your experience and keep unnecessary recommendations at bay.

4. Remove File Explorer Ads​

In the depths of File Explorer, Microsoft often slips in notifications for OneDrive you simply don’t care about. Here's how to purge that:

• Open File Explorer.
• Select the three-dot menu (in the action toolbar) > Options > View
• Uncheck:
  “Show sync provider notifications.”

Voila! Your File Explorer is now a serene space for file management.

5. Eliminate Widget Feed Ads​

Widgets can be handy, but they also bombard you with content you might not be interested in at all.

• To remove specific feeds:
  Click the widget icon, select the cog icon, and toggle off unwanted feeds.
• To disable widgets entirely:
  Right-click on your taskbar > Taskbar settings > Toggle “Widgets” to Off.

Now your taskbar looks cleaner, and you can focus on what matters—your actual work.

6. Disable Manufacturer Bloatware Ads​

If you bought your PC from a big manufacturer, chances are it comes with a slew of pre-installed apps that love to bug you with notifications.

• Navigate to:
  Settings > System > Notifications
• Toggle Off notifications for any manufacturer-specific apps you find.

A little spring cleaning here goes a long way in decluttering your digital space.

7. Block Lock-screen and Background Ads​

Windows Spotlight enhances your lock screen but may occasionally show ads masquerading as interesting content.

• Navigate to:
  Settings > Personalization > Background
• Select anything other than Windows Spotlight.
• Do the same for Lock Screen settings.

Go static with your backgrounds, and never again will Microsoft attempt to sell you candy crush during your coffee breaks.

8. Hide Highlight Ads in Windows Search​

When searching for files or apps, you don't need ads or shopping suggestions popping up like they own the place:

• Navigate to:
  Settings > Privacy and Security > Search Permissions
• Toggle Off:
  “Show search highlights.”

Your search bar will now be a no-nonsense hub for finding, well, whatever you’re looking for.

9. No More Personalized Ads​

Tired of seeing ads that feel too personal? Let’s ensure Windows stops tracking you like a hawk:

• Navigate to:
  Settings > Personalization > Device Usage
• Toggle Off all options.
• Also head to
  Settings > Privacy and Security > General
• Toggle Off:
  all options under diagnostics.

With these adjustments, the likelihood of Microsoft serving you targeted advertisements decreases significantly.

Final Thoughts: A Freer Windows Experience Awaits!​

While Windows 11’s advertising endeavors seem relentless, these nine tweaks will undoubtedly mitigate the intrusion of those pesky ads. Henceforth, you can enjoy a cleaner, quieter working environment minus the unsolicited promotional noise. Remember, reclaiming your digital autonomy is just a few clicks away!
If you’ve got any more tips up your sleeve or experiences to share, drop them in the comments. Let’s continue this quest for an ad-free Windows experience together!

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Source: PCWorld Windows PCs are full of ads. These 9 settings turn off the worst ones