Tired of annoying pop-ups and endless banner ads while browsing or using apps on your Windows 11 laptop? You’re not alone. Advertisements can be distracting, slow down your system, and even expose you to security risks. The good news? Blocking ads on Windows 11 is easier than you might think.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to block ads on Windows 11, from built-in system settings to browser extensions and even advanced methods. Ready to take back control of your screen? Let’s dive in.
Why Should You Block Ads on Windows 11?
Before we jump into the methods, let’s answer the big question: why bother blocking ads in the first place?
- Better user experience: Ads interrupt videos, articles, and even apps.
- Faster performance: Less clutter means faster browsing and smoother performance.
- Enhanced privacy: Many ads track your activity. Blocking them protects your data.
- Security boost: Some ads hide malware or phishing links.
Think of it like decluttering your digital desk—cleaner, safer, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
Different Types of Ads You’ll See in Windows 11
Not all ads are created equal. To effectively block them, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.
1. Pop-up Ads
These are the classic offenders—suddenly appearing windows that disrupt your activity.
2. In-App Ads
Some Windows apps (especially free ones) rely on ad revenue, so you’ll see ads built right into the software.
3. Browser Ads
These include banner ads, autoplay videos, and sidebars that follow you around while browsing.
4. System-Level Ads
Windows itself shows “suggestions” and “tips” in the Start Menu, lock screen, and even notifications.
How to Block Ads in Windows 11 Settings
Microsoft has built ad personalization right into Windows 11. Luckily, you can turn off most of it with a few clicks.
Step 1: Disable Ad Personalization
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & security > General.
- Turn off the toggle for “Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID”.
This won’t block all ads, but it reduces targeted ones.
Step 2: Turn Off Suggestions in Start Menu
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization > Start.
- Disable “Show suggestions occasionally in Start”.
No more random app recommendations cluttering your Start Menu.
Step 3: Remove Lock Screen Ads
- Go to Personalization > Lock screen.
- Under “Personalize your lock screen,” choose Picture or Slideshow (not Windows Spotlight).
Windows Spotlight often sneaks in ads for Microsoft services.
How to Block Ads in File Explorer
Yes, Microsoft even pushes OneDrive and Office ads inside File Explorer. Here’s how to shut them down:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click View > Options > Change folder and search options.
- Go to the View tab.
- Scroll down and uncheck “Show sync provider notifications.”
Goodbye, intrusive File Explorer ads.
How to Block Ads in Windows 11 Notifications
Some notifications aren’t helpful—they’re ads in disguise.
- Open Settings.
- Go to System > Notifications.
- Scroll and disable tips, tricks, and suggestions from Windows.
Now your notification bar will only show what matters.
Blocking Ads in Web Browsers (Edge, Chrome, Firefox)
Most ads come while you’re browsing. Here’s how to deal with them in different browsers.
Block Ads in Microsoft Edge
- Open Edge Settings.
- Go to Privacy, search, and services.
- Enable Tracking Prevention and set it to Strict.
Want more control? Install an ad-blocker extension like uBlock Origin or AdGuard.
Block Ads in Google Chrome
- Open Chrome Settings > Privacy and Security.
- Enable Safe Browsing.
- Add an extension like AdBlock Plus or uBlock Origin for stronger ad blocking.
Block Ads in Firefox
Firefox already blocks some trackers, but you can enhance it:
- Open Settings > Privacy & Security.
- Enable Strict mode.
- Add ad-block extensions for an extra layer of protection.
How to Block Ads in Apps on Windows 11
Some apps show ads by default. Here’s how to reduce them:
1. Upgrade to Premium Versions
Many free apps show ads, but upgrading removes them.
2. Use Open-Source Alternatives
Instead of ad-heavy apps, try open-source alternatives that don’t rely on ads.
3. Block Ads via Firewall
- Open Windows Defender Firewall.
- Block outbound connections for specific apps.
This prevents apps from fetching ads from servers.
Advanced Method: Using a Third-Party Ad Blocker for Windows 11
If you want complete system-wide protection, use third-party software.
Best Options
- AdGuard for Windows – Blocks ads across apps, browsers, and even YouTube.
- uBlock Origin (system-wide via browser) – Lightweight and effective.
- Pi-hole (advanced users) – Network-level ad blocking.
These tools are like having a personal security guard at your digital front door.
How to Block Ads on YouTube in Windows 11
YouTube ads can be the most annoying. Here are your options:
- Use an Ad Blocker Extension – Works for most browsers.
- Get YouTube Premium – Removes ads entirely.
- Download Videos (legally) – Watch without interruptions.
How to Block Ads with the Hosts File
If you’re comfortable tweaking system files, this is a powerful method.
- Press Win + S, search for Notepad, and run it as administrator.
- Open the file:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts - Add websites you want to block (like ad servers).
- Save the file.
This method works system-wide, but be careful—messing up the hosts file can cause issues.
Can Windows Defender Block Ads?
Not directly. Windows Defender protects you from malware, but it doesn’t remove ads. That’s why pairing it with an ad blocker is a smart move.
Do VPNs Help Block Ads?
Yes—some VPNs (like NordVPN and Surfshark) come with built-in ad-blocking features. This blocks trackers and malicious ads while keeping your browsing private.
Tips for a Cleaner, Ad-Free Windows 11 Experience
- Use a combination of browser ad blockers + system settings.
- Consider AdGuard or Pi-hole for complete control.
- Avoid shady free apps that rely heavily on ads.
- Keep your system updated to patch vulnerabilities.
Final Thoughts
Blocking ads on Windows 11 isn’t just about convenience—it’s about security, speed, and sanity. Whether you go with built-in settings, browser extensions, or full-blown third-party tools, you now have everything you need to take back control of your laptop.
Think of ads like weeds in a garden: if you don’t pull them out, they’ll take over. But once you clean them up, your digital space feels fresh, private, and distraction-free.
FAQs
1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in ad blocker?
No, but it has settings to reduce personalized ads and system suggestions.
2. What’s the best free ad blocker for Windows 11?
uBlock Origin is one of the best free options for browsers, while AdGuard offers system-wide blocking.
3. Can I block ads without installing extra software?
Yes, by adjusting Windows 11 settings and using browser privacy options, though third-party tools are more effective.
4. Will blocking ads break websites?
Some sites rely on ads to function, so occasionally you might see broken layouts. You can whitelist those sites if needed.
5. Is it legal to block ads on Windows 11?
Yes, blocking ads for personal use is legal. Just avoid pirated tools or shady software.