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Step-by-Step Guide to Disable and Remove Unwanted Ads on Windows 11

2024/05/04
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Key Notes

  • Multiple methods to remove ads from various Windows 11 components.
  • How to disable personalized ad settings for a clutter-free experience.
  • Steps to navigate Windows 11 settings effectively.

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Microsoft Ads on Your Windows 11

As users of Windows 11, you may have noticed an influx of ads that can diminish your overall experience. This guide provides insightful methods to help you effectively remove or disable unwanted ads that Microsoft integrates within its system.

How to Eliminate Unwanted Microsoft Ads in Windows 11

Microsoft ads can pop up in several areas of your Windows 11 interface, including the Start menu, Settings menu, and File Explorer. Follow these steps to get rid of them:

Method #1: Remove Ads from Start Menu and Settings

To start eliminating ads in the Start menu, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings application.
  2. Navigate to Personalization.
  3. Click on Start.
  4. Disable the option for Show account related notifications occasionally in Start.

Pro Tip: Restart your PC to apply all changes effectively.

Method #2: Remove Ads from Windows Search

For ads appearing in Windows Search, here’s what you need to do:

  1. From Settings, choose Privacy & Security.
  2. Select Search Permissions.
  3. Turn off Show Search highlights.

Method #3: Remove Ads from the Lock Screen

To get rid of lock screen ads:

  1. Go back to Settings.
  2. Click on Personalization.
  3. Proceed to Lock Screen.
  4. Uncheck Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.

Method #4: Disable Ads from System Settings

To prevent ads from showing up in System Settings:

  1. Head to Settings.
  2. Click on System.
  3. Select Notifications.
  4. Navigate to Additional Settings.
  5. Uncheck the Show the Windows welcome experience after updates and when signed in option.

Method #5: Remove Ads from File Explorer

To eliminate ads from File Explorer:

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Click the three-dot menu in the command bar.
  3. Choose Options.
  4. Go to View.
  5. Uncheck Show sync provider notifications.
  6. Conclude by clicking Apply and then OK.

Method #6: Disable Ads from Widgets

To manage widget ads, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Widgets Dashboard.
  2. Go to Settings.
  3. Select Show or hide feeds.
  4. Toggle the My Feed option Off.

Method #7: Stop Personalized Ads

To stop personalized ads:

  1. From Settings, go to Privacy & Security.
  2. Choose General.
  3. Toggle the Let apps show me personalized ads using my advertising ID option Off.
  4. Disable Show me suggested content in the Settings app.

Method #8: Limit Ads by Device Usage

To minimize ads related to device usage:

  1. Access Settings.
  2. Select Personalization.
  3. Click on Device Usage.
  4. Turn off all applicable options to reduce ad exposure.

Summary

This guide has provided you with various methods to disable and remove unwanted Microsoft ads on Windows 11, allowing you to achieve a more streamlined and less distracting user experience. If you find that you want to re-enable these ads later, you can easily do so by following the same steps outlined above.

Final Thoughts

The abundance of ads on your Windows 11 device can be a nuisance, but following these steps will help you regain control over your interface. Consider adjusting your settings regularly to maintain an optimal experience without unwanted distractions.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I disable all ads in Windows 11 completely?

While you can significantly minimize ads, completely disabling all ads may not be possible due to certain system integrations. Following the methods described will greatly reduce their appearance.

Will disabling ads affect my Windows usability?

Disabling ads does not impact the core functionality of Windows 11. In fact, it enhances usability by providing a cleaner interface for productivity.

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