As users navigate the evolving landscape of Windows 11, many have noticed an uptick in promotional content embedded within the operating system. Microsoft has been gradually increasing the visibility of ads, often disguised as helpful suggestions, across various features. While some users may find these suggestions beneficial, others may prefer a more streamlined experience devoid of constant marketing prompts. Fortunately, there are several straightforward adjustments that can be made to reduce this clutter.
Start Menu Suggestions
The Start Menu frequently showcases app recommendations, which are often promotions for Microsoft Store applications. To disable these suggestions, follow these steps:
- Open your settings by pressing the Windows Icon Key + I.
- Click the three horizontal lines in the top left corner, then select Personalization, followed by Start.
- Toggle off Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more.
Lock Screen Ads
If your lock screen displays ads, it is likely due to the Windows Spotlight feature. To turn it off, proceed with the following:
- Open Settings.
- Select Personalization, then Lock screen.
- If Personalize your lock screen is set to Windows Spotlight, change it to either Picture or Slideshow.
- Next, disable Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.
File Explorer Promotions
Ads have also made their way into File Explorer, promoting services like OneDrive and Microsoft 365. To eliminate these promotions, follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click the three horizontal dots in the menu bar, then select Options.
- Navigate to the View tab at the top, scroll down in the Files and Folders section, and uncheck Show sync provider notifications.
Taskbar Search
To address ads appearing in your Taskbar search, you can adjust the following settings:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & security, then Search permissions.
- Scroll to the ‘More settings’ section and disable Show search highlights.
Notification Ads
Windows may occasionally present “helpful” tips that are essentially ads for Microsoft services. To turn these off, follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to System, then Notifications.
- Scroll down to Additional settings and uncheck both Show the Windows welcome experience … and Get tips and suggestions ….
Microsoft Account Prods
If you do not utilize Microsoft’s online services such as OneDrive or 365, you can prevent prompts to sign in with a Microsoft account by:
- Opening Settings, then Accounts, followed by Your Info.
- Clicking on Sign in with a local account instead and following the instructions to switch.
While not every ad can be eliminated—particularly those integrated into Microsoft’s free applications—implementing these adjustments should significantly enhance your user experience by minimizing distractions. As Microsoft continues to innovate and promote its services, users may need to revisit these settings periodically to maintain a clean and efficient workspace.
Notifications from Other Apps
Additionally, if notifications from other applications are cluttering your experience, take a moment to review the list in the System > Notifications section of Settings and disable those that are unnecessary.
Ken Colburn is the founder and CEO of Data Doctors Computer Services, datadoctors.com. Ask any tech question at facebook.com/DataDoctors or on X, formerly Twitter, @TheDataDoc.
