How to Remove Ads in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes promotional content and recommendations across different parts of the operating system. These can appear as suggestions in the Start menu, tips on the lock screen, ads in Settings, notifications promoting Microsoft services, or recommendations in File Explorer. While Microsoft refers to many of these as “tips” or “suggestions,” they often feel like ads and can be distracting.

These ads are enabled by default, especially on fresh installations of Windows 11. Although they do not affect system performance directly, they reduce visual clarity and can interrupt workflow, particularly for users who prefer a clean and professional desktop experience.

Removing ads in Windows 11 does not require third-party tools. By adjusting a few system settings, you can disable most promotional content and significantly reduce ads across the operating system. The steps below explain how to turn off ads and suggestions in all major areas of Windows 11.

How to Remove Ads in Windows 11

The methods in this section focus on disabling ads, suggestions, and promotional notifications across Windows 11. Apply the steps in order to achieve the cleanest possible experience.

1. Disable Ads and Suggestions in the Start Menu

The Start menu often shows app and service promotions.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Personalization.
3. Select Start.
4. Turn off Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more.

This removes promotional suggestions from the Start menu.

2. Turn Off Lock Screen Ads and Tips

The lock screen may display promotional content.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Personalization.
3. Select Lock screen.
4. Set the background to Picture or Slideshow instead of Windows Spotlight.
5. Turn off Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen.

This removes ads and tips from the lock screen.

3. Disable Ads in Windows Settings

Settings may show promotional banners.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Privacy & security.
3. Select General.
4. Turn off Show me suggested content in the Settings app.

This prevents Microsoft promotions inside Settings.

4. Turn Off Personalized Ads Using Advertising ID

Windows uses an advertising ID for targeted ads.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Privacy & security.
3. Select General.
4. Turn off Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID.

This disables personalized advertising across apps.

5. Disable Tips, Tricks, and Suggestions Notifications

Windows may send promotional notifications.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System.
3. Select Notifications.
4. Scroll down and click Additional settings.
5. Turn off:
   • Get tips and suggestions when using Windows
   • Show me the Windows welcome experience
   • Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows

This stops promotional notifications.

6. Remove Ads From File Explorer

File Explorer may show Microsoft service ads.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the three-dot menu.
3. Select Options.
4. Open the View tab.
5. Uncheck Show sync provider notifications.
6. Click Apply and OK.

This removes ads from File Explorer.

7. Disable Microsoft Account and OneDrive Promotions

Windows may promote Microsoft services.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Accounts.
3. Select Your info.
4. Review and dismiss any promotional prompts.
5. Optionally switch to a local account if preferred.

This reduces account-related promotions.

8. Turn Off Suggested Apps and App Promotions

Windows may promote apps in the background.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Apps.
3. Select Advanced app settings.
4. Disable App suggestions if available.

This reduces app-related promotions.

9. Disable Windows Spotlight Ads (Optional)

Spotlight content often includes promotions.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Personalization > Background.
3. Change Windows Spotlight to Picture or Slideshow.

This removes dynamic promotional wallpapers.

10. Restart Windows Explorer or the System

Restarting applies changes properly.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Select Windows Explorer.
3. Click Restart.

Alternatively, restart the computer.

Final Thoughts

Ads and promotional content in Windows 11 are mostly optional and can be disabled through built-in settings. By turning off suggestions, tips, personalized ads, and promotional notifications, you can significantly clean up the Windows 11 experience and make it feel more professional and distraction-free.