Windows 11, like its predecessors, includes built-in advertisements that appear in various parts of the operating system, such as the Start menu, lock screen, notifications area, File Explorer, and Settings app. These ads can be distracting and clutter the user interface. Disabling them can enhance your Windows experience by reducing distractions and streamlining your system. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove these advertisements:Disable Personalized Ads and Suggested Content1. Open Windows Settings: Click the Start menu and select the gear-shaped Settings icon.2. Navigate to Privacy & Security: On the left sidebar, click Privacy & security. Under "Windows permissions," click on General.3. Disable Personalized Ads: Toggle off "Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID."4. Disable Suggested Content: Also disable "Show me suggested content in the Settings app" to remove promotional suggestions from the Settings menus.Turn Off Notifications and Suggested Features1. Access Notifications Settings: In the Settings app, click System in the left sidebar, then select Notifications.2. Disable Promotional Notifications: Scroll down and expand the Additional settings section. Disable the following options: - "Show the Windows welcome experience after updates" - "Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows" - "Get tips and suggestions when using Windows"Remove Ads from the Lock Screen1. Navigate to Lock Screen Settings: Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen.2. Change Background: Switch the background from "Windows spotlight" to either "Picture" or "Slideshow."3. Disable Promotional Text: Turn off the toggle labeled "Get fun facts, tips, and more from Windows and Cortana on your lock screen."Disable Ads in File Explorer1. Open File Explorer Options: Open File Explorer, click the three-dot menu icon at the top, and select Options.2. Disable Sync Provider Notifications: In the Folder Options window, click the View tab. Scroll down and uncheck the box labeled "Show sync provider notifications." Click Apply and then OK.Uninstall Pre-installed Promotional Apps and Bloatware1. Access Installed Apps: Open the Settings app, click Apps, then select Installed apps.2. Uninstall Unwanted Apps: Identify and uninstall any unwanted pre-installed apps or promotional software by clicking the ellipsis (...) next to the app name and selecting Uninstall.Disable Device Usage-Based Recommendations1. Access Device Usage Settings: Within the Settings app, select Personalization from the left sidebar, and click Device usage.2. Disable Recommendations: Toggle off all listed options to prevent Windows from recommending apps and services based on your device usage habits.Disable Start Menu Ads1. Access Start Menu Settings: Right-click any blank space in the Start menu and click Start settings.2. Disable Recommendations: Scroll down and disable "Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more."By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the presence of built-in advertisements in Windows 11, creating a cleaner and more streamlined user experience. It's also important to periodically check these settings after major Windows updates, as Microsoft may re-enable some ads and suggestions.
