How to get rid of ads on Windows 11 devices

Microsoft has made a lot of changes to Windows 11, but unfortunately ads are still present. In addition to regular ads, Microsoft also adds many other ads to the new operating system through suggestions, recommendations, tips and directly on the user interface.

However, this doesn't mean you should live with them and let yourself be targeted by advertising. Thankfully, Microsoft allows users to disable ads from Windows 11, but the process is not simple. These are different ways to remove ads on Windows 11 devices.

How to remove ads from Windows 11 Start menu

Like the previous version, Windows 11 promotes various applications in the Start menu. These apps are not inherently part of the operating system, but when you install Windows 11 or buy a device running it, Microsoft adds them to your computer without your approval. You will see them installed in the Start menu.

Some of the apps in this ad are installed on computers, while others are just shortcuts to download pages in the Microsoft store. Unfortunately, some people won't even notice them, and these apps are eating up precious storage space on Windows. If you want to remove advertised applications on Windows 11, follow the steps below:

1. Open the Start menu by clicking the Start icon or pressing the Windows key.
2. Locate the applications you want to remove, right-click on them and press Uninstall for applications installed in the system or click Unpin if the Uninstall option is not available.

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Unfortunately, there's no way to automatically remove all promoted apps at once. At the same time, Microsoft does not have a list of all the software they advertise. They may also change them from time to time depending on the advertising contract with the app developer.

How to block ads from Windows 11 lock screen

Another place you'll see ads on Windows 11 devices is the lock screen. Microsoft may call them 'tips, tricks, etc.' but they're basically just ads in disguise. Here's how to remove them from the lock screen:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

2. In the left navigation of Settings, click Personalization .

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3. In the Personalization section , click Lock screen .

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4. On the Lock screen settings , uncheck the box next to Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen .

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Note : You can only turn off ads on the Windows 11 lock screen if you are using Picture or Slideshow for it. However, if the lock screen is set to Windows Spotlight, there is no way to block ads on it.

How to turn off ads displayed in Notifications Windows 11

In addition to the lock screen and Start menu, ads are also strategically placed in Windows 11 Notifications and various places like Action Center, Taskbar, default apps, etc. These ads are displayed as ' hints' and 'tips' when using your computer or even when configuring some settings.

If you don't want to see 'suggestions' and 'tips' in different places in the system, follow these steps:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I .

2. On the left menu of the Settings page, select System .

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3. In System , click Notifications .

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4. On Notifications settings , scroll down and turn off Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device and  Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows . This will remove intrusive ads in the system.

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How to remove ads from Windows 11 Settings

You might be surprised at the number of ads Microsoft is putting out in Windows 11. In addition to the ads mentioned above, the Settings app is another location for ads on Windows 11 devices. Although not yet There are no ads placed on the Settings app, but there is an option in there that suggests Microsoft will implement in-app ads at some point.

Here's how to remove ads in the Settings window of Windows 11:

1. To open Settings, press Win + I .

2. On the left sidebar, click Privacy & security .

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3. Then, select General from the Private & security settings.

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4. In the General section , find Show me suggested content in the Settings app and turn off the toggle.

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How to turn off ads in Windows 11 File Explorer

Like Windows 10, Windows 11 File Explorer is also an advertising space. Unfortunately, it's hard to get rid of all these ads, especially when they're placed in locations where you least expect them. But don't worry, you can disable them easily. Here's how:

1. Access the File Explorer window.

2. Then, click on the three dots located at the right end of the top menu.

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3. Next, select Options from the drop-down menu.

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4. On the Folder Options pop-up window, click the View tab .

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5. In the View section , uncheck the Show sync provider notifications option , click Apply > OK.

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Lesley Montoya

Update 13 May 2024