Windows 11 often presents built-in advertisements, featuring app suggestions, sponsored content, and promotional notifications across various areas like the Start menu, lock screen, notifications area, File Explorer, and within the Settings app itself. To create a streamlined and distraction-free environment, it’s crucial to disable these advertisements. By manually adjusting the settings within Windows, you can enhance your user experience without resorting to third-party tools that may introduce complications.
Disable Personalized Ads and Suggested Content
Step 1: Launch the Windows 11 Settings app by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear-shaped icon.
Step 2: Navigate to Privacy & security from the left sidebar. Under the “Windows permissions”section, select General.
Step 3: Disable the option labeled “Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID.” This setting prevents Windows from tracking your usage behaviors to serve tailored ads.
Step 4: Additionally, turn off “Show me suggested content in the Settings app.” This will remove promotional suggestions from the Settings menus. For more privacy, consider turning off the other options available on this page to further limit tracking.
Turn Off Notifications and Suggested Features
Step 1: In the Settings app, select System from the left menu, then click on Notifications.
Step 2: Scroll down to the Additional settings section and disable the following options:
- “Show the Windows welcome experience after updates.”
- “Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows.”
- “Get tips and suggestions when using Windows.”
Disabling these options will stop Windows from sending promotional notifications and unwanted suggestions.
Remove Ads from the Lock Screen
Step 1: Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
Step 2: Change the background setting from “Windows spotlight” to “Picture” or “Slideshow.” This will eliminate ads from appearing on your lock screen.
Disable Ads in File Explorer
Step 1: Open File Explorer and click the three-dot menu icon at the top right, then select Options.
Step 2: In the Folder Options window that appears, go to the View tab.
Step 3: Scroll through the Advanced settings list and uncheck the box marked “Show sync provider notifications.” Click Apply and then OK to finalize your changes. This will prevent advertisements for services, like OneDrive, from appearing within File Explorer.
Uninstall Pre-installed Promotional Apps and Bloatware
Step 1: Access the Settings app and click on Apps, then proceed to Installed apps.
Step 2: Scroll through your list of installed applications. Identify any unwanted pre-installed apps or promotional software and remove them by clicking the ellipsis (…) next to the app name and selecting Uninstall. This step can significantly decrease unwanted notifications and promotional content.
Disable Device Usage-Based Recommendations
Step 1: Within the Settings app, select Personalization from the sidebar, and click on Device usage.
Step 2: Turn off all listed options to stop Windows from recommending apps and services based on your device usage patterns.
By diligently following these steps, you can significantly refine your Windows 11 experience, making it cleaner and less cluttered with promotional content. Remember to review these settings after major Windows updates, as Microsoft occasionally re-enables certain ads and suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I completely eliminate all ads in Windows 11?
While you can significantly reduce advertisements by following the steps outlined above, some ads may still appear due to system updates or certain features. Regularly reviewing your settings can help maintain a cleaner interface.
2. Will disabling personalized ads affect my experience on other Microsoft applications?
Yes, turning off personalized ads may lead to less targeted content across other Microsoft services, but it can enhance your overall experience by reducing intrusive advertisements.
3. What if I change my mind about disabling ads later?
You can easily re-enable personalized ads and notifications at any time by revisiting the settings. Simply reverse the steps provided to restore ads and suggestions.
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