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Remove the Most Annoying Ads From Windows

Writer's picture: Angus StewartAngus Stewart

Updated: Jan 22


Remove ads from Windows

Windows 10 and 11 are popular operating systems, but they come with built-in ads that can be frustrating for users. Here's how to remove the most annoying ads from Windows:


Remove Start Menu Ads


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

In Windows 10, go to Settings > Personalization > Start and disable "Show suggestions occasionally in Start". For Windows 11, turn off "Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more".


To remove pre-installed app tiles, right-click and choose "Uninstall" or "Turn Live Tile Off".


Disable Lock Screen Ads


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen. Change the background from Windows spotlight to Picture or Slideshow. Then disable "Get fun facts, tips, and more from Windows and Cortana on your lock screen".


Remove Notification Ads


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

For Windows 10, go to Settings > System > Notifications & actions and uncheck "Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows". In Windows 11, open Settings > System > Notifications > Additional settings and disable related options.


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

Eliminate Bloatware Ads


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)


Check Settings > System > Notifications for unfamiliar apps sending notifications. These might be manufacturer-installed bloatware that can be turned off or uninstalled.


Disable Ads in Settings App


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

Go to Settings > Privacy > General and turn off "Show me suggested content in the Settings app".


Remove File Explorer Ads


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

In File Explorer, click View > Options > Change folder and search options in Windows 10 or open the three-dot menu and click Option in Windows 11. From there, click the View tab in the window that appears. Scroll down to Show sync provider notifications and uncheck that box.


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

Turn Off Targeted Advertising


Windows example
(Credit: Microsoft)

In Windows 10, go to Settings > Privacy > General and disable "Let apps use advertising ID". For Windows 11, turn off "Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID".


Remember, Microsoft may reintroduce ads with updates, so periodically check these settings.

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