Windows 11 is sleek, modern, and packed with features. But if there’s one thing that annoys many users, it’s the ads that sneak into the operating system. From the Start menu recommendations to lock screen suggestions, Microsoft has sprinkled ads in places you might not expect.
The good news? You can disable most of these ads with just a few tweaks. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to get rid of ads in Windows 11 so you can enjoy a cleaner, distraction-free experience.
Why Does Windows 11 Show Ads?
Microsoft doesn’t call them “ads” directly. Instead, they’re often labeled as suggestions or tips. These can include:
- Recommendations in the Start menu
- Pop-ups in File Explorer
- “Fun facts” or background suggestions on the lock screen
- Notifications promoting Microsoft products
While some people find them useful, most of us just see them as clutter.
Types of Ads in Windows 11
Before disabling them, let’s break down where these ads usually appear:
- Start Menu Suggestions – Ads for apps you haven’t installed yet.
- File Explorer Ads – Promotions for OneDrive and Microsoft 365.
- Lock Screen Ads – Background images with trivia or product suggestions.
- Notifications & Tips – Pop-ups recommending Microsoft apps.
- Settings & Widgets Ads – Prompts to use Microsoft Edge or Bing.
Step 1: Disable Ads in the Start Menu
Start menu ads usually appear as “Recommended apps.”
How to turn them off:
- Right-click the Start button and open Settings.
- Go to Personalization → Start.
- Toggle off Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more.
That’s it! No more app suggestions in your Start menu.
Step 2: Turn Off File Explorer Ads
Microsoft sometimes promotes OneDrive inside File Explorer.
Steps to disable:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click the three dots menu on the toolbar and select Options.
- Go to the View tab.
- Scroll down and uncheck Show sync provider notifications.
- Click Apply → OK.
Now your File Explorer stays clean.
Step 3: Remove Ads from the Lock Screen
Lock screen ads come through Windows Spotlight backgrounds.
Steps to disable:
- Open Settings → Personalization → Lock screen.
- Under Personalize your lock screen, choose Picture or Slideshow (instead of Windows Spotlight).
- Toggle off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.
No more trivia or product promos every time you log in.
Step 4: Disable Ads in Notifications and Tips
Windows loves to send tips, but they often feel like ads.
Steps to disable:
- Open Settings → System → Notifications.
- Scroll down and click Additional settings.
- Uncheck:
- Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device
- Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows
- Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows and finish setting up this device
This removes pop-up suggestions.
Step 5: Block Ads in Widgets
The Widgets panel often shows ads or promotional content.
Steps to limit ads:
- Open Widgets by pressing Win + W.
- Click your profile icon → Manage interests.
- Adjust or turn off topics you don’t want to see.
- You can also remove unwanted widgets altogether.
Step 6: Stop Microsoft Edge Ads
Microsoft pushes Edge browser through notifications and prompts.
How to reduce them:
- Open Settings → Apps → Default apps.
- Set your preferred browser (like Chrome or Firefox) as default.
- Avoid the “Use recommended browser settings” option during updates.
Step 7: Adjust Privacy Settings
Some ads are based on your activity. You can turn off personalized ads.
Steps to disable:
- Go to Settings → Privacy & security → General.
- Turn off:
- Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID
- Show me suggested content in the Settings app
This reduces targeted promotions.
Extra Tip: Use Local Account Instead of Microsoft Account
If you sign in with a local account instead of a Microsoft account, you’ll see fewer ads and fewer “recommendations.”
Benefits of Disabling Ads on Windows 11
- Cleaner interface with no clutter
- Faster, distraction-free workflow
- More control over what shows up on your screen
- Reduced data tracking for ads and recommendations
Conclusion
Windows 11 may have ads scattered throughout the system, but you don’t have to live with them. By tweaking a few settings—disabling suggestions in the Start menu, File Explorer, lock screen, and notifications—you can enjoy a smoother, ad-free experience.
Microsoft wants to promote its services, but you’re in control of your PC. A few clicks, and it feels truly yours again.
FAQs
1. Can I completely remove all ads from Windows 11?
Not 100%, but you can disable most of them using the steps above.
2. Why do I see app suggestions in the Start menu?
They are ads disguised as “recommendations.” You can turn them off in Start menu settings.
3. Do I need third-party tools to block ads?
No, Windows 11 allows you to disable most ads from its own settings.
4. Will disabling ads affect my PC performance?
Yes—in a good way. It reduces background processes and clutter.
5. Does Microsoft Edge still show ads after changing the default browser?
You may still see occasional prompts, but they’ll be much less frequent.