How to Stop Pop-Ups in Windows 11: Essential Tips and Tricks

Pop-ups can be one of the most annoying distractions when you’re working, gaming, or simply browsing the web on your Windows 11 PC. Whether they’re from your browser, apps, or even Windows itself, constant pop-ups can slow you down and make your experience less enjoyable. The good news is, you don’t have to live with them. In this guide, I’ll walk you through practical methods to stop pop-ups in Windows 11—so you can finally use your computer without interruptions.

Table of Contents

Why Do Pop-Ups Appear in Windows 11?

Before fixing the issue, let’s understand the problem. Pop-ups in Windows 11 usually come from three main sources:

Web Browsers – Ads, notifications, or unwanted permission prompts.
Windows System Notifications – Updates, security alerts, or tips.
Third-Party Apps – Apps like antivirus software, messaging tools, or games pushing notifications.

Knowing where they come from helps you tackle them effectively.

The Downsides of Pop-Ups

Interruptions While Working – Nothing’s worse than a pop-up while presenting or working.
Slower PC Performance – Too many notifications can eat up resources.
Security Risks – Malicious pop-ups may try to trick you into clicking unsafe links.
Cluttered Screen – A messy workspace makes it harder to focus.

How to Stop Pop-Ups in Windows 11

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of methods to block unwanted pop-ups.

Method 1: Disable Notifications from Windows Settings

Step 1: Open Settings

Press Win + I on your keyboard.

Step 2: Navigate to Notifications

Go to System > Notifications.

Step 3: Toggle Off Unwanted Apps

You’ll see a list of apps that send notifications. Simply turn off the ones that annoy you.

Method 2: Turn Off Tips and Suggestions from Windows

Windows sometimes shows “helpful” tips that end up being pop-ups.

Go to Settings > System > Notifications.
Scroll down and uncheck “Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device” and “Get tips and suggestions when I use Windows.”

This stops Windows from nagging you with setup and feature suggestions.

Method 3: Block Browser Pop-Ups

For Microsoft Edge

Open Edge > Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Pop-ups and redirects.
Turn Block on.

For Google Chrome

Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings.
Select Pop-ups and redirects, then set it to Blocked.

For Firefox

Open Settings > Privacy & Security.
Check the box for Block pop-up windows.

Method 4: Manage Notification Banners and Sounds

Sometimes, it’s not the number of pop-ups but the way they appear.

Go to Settings > System > Notifications.
Select an app and turn off notification banners or sounds to make them less distracting.

Method 5: Use Focus Assist Mode

Focus Assist is like a “Do Not Disturb” feature for Windows 11.

Open Settings > System > Focus Assist.
Choose between Priority only (lets through important apps) or Alarms only (blocks almost everything).

This is perfect when you’re working or gaming.

Method 6: Disable Startup Apps That Cause Pop-Ups

Some apps launch at startup and spam you with pop-ups.

Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
Go to Startup apps.
Disable unnecessary apps.

Method 7: Block Pop-Ups from Third-Party Software

If you use antivirus or VPN software, they often show constant alerts. Most of them have options in their Settings menu to turn off “special offers,” “product news,” or unnecessary alerts.

Method 8: Scan for Malware or Adware

Not all pop-ups are innocent—some may be malware.

Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
Run a Full Scan to check for threats.
Remove suspicious programs from Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.

Method 9: Use a Pop-Up Blocker Extension

For web browsing, you can install extensions like:

uBlock Origin
AdBlock Plus
Ghostery

These block intrusive ads and malicious pop-ups on all sites.

Method 10: Keep Windows Updated

Sometimes, pop-ups are caused by outdated software or bugs. Regularly update Windows 11 by going to:

Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.

Best Practices to Prevent Pop-Ups in the Future

Only install trusted apps.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads.
Regularly review notification settings.
Keep your antivirus and firewall active.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Disabling all notifications – You might miss important security alerts.
Ignoring malware signs – Constant random pop-ups could indicate a virus.
Not customizing per app – Some apps are useful; just tweak their settings instead of turning them off entirely.

Final Thoughts

Pop-ups in Windows 11 don’t have to ruin your experience. By managing notifications, tweaking browser settings, and using built-in tools like Focus Assist, you can block unnecessary distractions and keep only the alerts that matter. Think of it like decluttering your desk—you’re removing the noise so you can focus on what’s important.

FAQs

1. Can I completely disable all pop-ups in Windows 11?

Not entirely—you’ll still get essential system alerts. But you can block almost all unnecessary ones.

2. Are pop-ups always harmful?

No, some are useful (like reminders or security alerts), but many are just ads or distractions.

3. Why do I still see pop-ups even after blocking them in my browser?

They might be system notifications or app-based pop-ups, not just browser ads.

4. Does Focus Assist block all pop-ups?

It blocks most, but you can customize which apps still show notifications.

5. How do I stop pop-ups from specific apps?

Go to Settings > System > Notifications, select the app, and toggle off its notifications.