Are you annoyed by constant pop-ups in Windows 11? From unwanted notifications to ads in the Start menu and even browser pop-ups, these interruptions can be distracting and reduce productivity. The good news is that you can stop pop-ups in Windows 11 by adjusting a few settings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to block pop-ups across Windows system settings, browsers, apps, and Microsoft services.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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Pop-ups in Windows 11 can come from system notifications, apps, browsers, and ads.
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You can stop them via Settings, Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or third-party apps.
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Windows 11 has built-in tools like Focus Assist to reduce interruptions.
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Blocking ads in the Start menu, lock screen, and notifications creates a cleaner experience.
Why Do You See Pop-Ups in Windows 11?
Pop-ups usually come from:
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Windows tips and suggestions (Microsoft ads).
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System notifications from apps.
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Browser pop-ups and redirects.
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Background apps pushing alerts.
Not all pop-ups are harmful — some notify you of important updates. But most users prefer to control what appears and when.
How to Stop Pop-Ups in Windows 11
Let’s go step by step through the most effective methods.
Method 1: Disable Windows Tips and Suggestions
Windows often shows “helpful” suggestions that look like ads.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to System > Notifications.
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Scroll down and uncheck:
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Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device
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Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows
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👉 This stops Microsoft’s built-in pop-up recommendations.
Method 2: Turn Off Notifications for Apps
Some apps send excessive alerts you don’t need.
Steps:
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Open Settings > System > Notifications.
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Under Notifications from apps and other senders, turn off any apps you don’t want.
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To customize, click on an app and disable pop-ups, banners, or sounds.
Method 3: Enable Focus Assist (Do Not Disturb)
Focus Assist hides pop-ups when you’re working or gaming.
Steps:
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Go to Settings > System > Focus assist.
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Choose:
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Alarms only – hides all notifications except alarms.
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Priority only – only allows selected apps/contacts.
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You can also schedule Focus Assist during specific hours.
Method 4: Stop Lock Screen Pop-Ups
Windows 11 sometimes shows ads or tips on the lock screen.
Steps:
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Open Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.
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Set Personalize your lock screen to Picture or Slideshow (not Windows Spotlight).
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Turn off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.
Method 5: Disable Pop-Ups in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge includes pop-up blocking, but you need to enable it.
Steps:
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Open Edge → click … (menu) → Settings.
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Go to Cookies and site permissions > Pop-ups and redirects.
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Toggle Block (recommended).
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Also, turn on Block ads that are intrusive or misleading under Tracking prevention.
Method 6: Block Pop-Ups in Google Chrome
If you use Chrome, adjust its settings.
Steps:
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Open Chrome → click ⋮ (menu) → Settings.
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Go to Privacy and security > Site settings > Pop-ups and redirects.
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Select Don’t allow sites to send pop-ups or use redirects.
Method 7: Disable Start Menu Pop-Ups (Suggested Apps)
Sometimes Windows suggests apps inside the Start menu.
Steps:
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Open Settings > Personalization > Start.
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Turn off Show suggestions occasionally in Start.
Method 8: Stop Background Apps from Sending Pop-Ups
Apps running in the background can trigger alerts.
Steps:
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Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
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Select an app → Advanced options.
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Under Background apps permissions, set it to Never.
Method 9: Use a Third-Party Ad Blocker
If browser pop-ups persist, install an ad blocker extension like uBlock Origin or AdGuard.
Method 10: Scan for Malware (If Pop-Ups Persist)
If you’re still seeing random pop-ups, your PC may be infected.
Steps:
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Open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection.
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Click Quick scan (or Full scan for deeper check).
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Remove any threats found.
Pros and Cons of Blocking Pop-Ups
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cleaner, distraction-free experience | Might miss important system alerts |
| Better productivity | Some apps may require manual checking |
| Improved browser security | Extra setup required in browsers |
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to stop annoying pop-ups, from disabling notifications to blocking browser ads. Start with Windows settings to stop system and app notifications, then move on to browser settings for full control.
If you still see suspicious pop-ups, always run a malware scan to ensure your PC is safe.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a quieter, distraction-free Windows 11 experience.
FAQs About Stopping Pop-Ups in Windows 11
1. How do I stop pop-ups on my desktop in Windows 11?
Go to Settings > System > Notifications and disable unnecessary apps.
2. Why do I keep getting ads in Windows 11?
Microsoft shows ads in Start, lock screen, and tips — disable them in Settings > Personalization > Start/Lock screen.
3. Can I block all notifications at once?
Yes, enable Focus Assist > Alarms only to hide all notifications.
4. Do I need an ad blocker for Windows 11?
Not for system pop-ups, but browsers like Chrome/Edge benefit from ad blockers.
5. Are pop-ups always a sign of a virus?
Not always. Many are system suggestions, but persistent random pop-ups may indicate malware.